The 2008 flood devastated Cedar Rapids’ NewBo and Czech Village neighborhoods. Determined to rebuild, two grassroots groups formed ConnectCR to unite the communities with walking and biking trails, creating a hub for recreation and business. To bring this vision to life, they set a $5 million private fundraising goal.

Our strategy: Plan, execute and launch the “Awakening Connections” capital campaign, using compelling branding, photography, a campaign video and a comprehensive case statement to engage donors.

Through strategic branding and storytelling, Amperage crafted a vision that resonated with key audiences, helping to establish ConnectCR as a lasting force in Cedar Rapids revitalization. The campaign exceeded expectations, raising $8 million and bringing together citizens, business owners, conservationists, cyclists and community leaders — including two former mayors — to strengthen civic engagement.