Sparkwheel

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Formerly known as Communities in Schools of Mid-America, SparkWheel launched as an independent organization in 2023 to provide student support services to more than 30,000 students in Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Iowa. They help support students’ academic and non-academic needs, resulting in an increased sense of well-being and greater

success in school.

THE CHALLENGE

When their former national organization was headed in a different direction, Communities in Schools wanted to break off and establish their own organization, but communicating their long-established history under a new name was daunting.
Various stakeholders brought different opinions about the right path forward and required a collaborative approach.
The communities the organization serves don’t always understand what services were available and why it is such a valuable resource for not only the school, but the community at large.

OUR APPROACH

BowerComm’s Journey to Yes program led SparkWheel stakeholders through a 9-step process, taking a deep dive to better understand needs, objectives, and even competition, through in-depth stakeholder interviews and workshop.
Though the name was new, emphasis was given at every opportunity to remind various audiences that SparkWheel was built on 25 years of experience.
Through a new name, logo, and website, SparkWheel can demonstrate its renewed and re-energized commitment to student success. An Anthem video was also produced, showcasing the real connection between students and their Student Support Coordinators.

THE OUTCOME

The launch of the new name, logo and website were met with widespread support, and the website and anthem video won an award from The Philly Awards, which “celebrates outstanding achievements in nonprofit marketing, communications, and fundraising.”
SparkWheel has continued to build a reputation as a key resource for students and schools in the communities they serve.