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Plan of Action
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We are filmmakers from the Hollywood community producing low to no-cost promotional videos for non-profit organizations who in turn use them to fundraise and create public awareness. We offer our services to organizations operating successfully within their scope but lacking the resources (financial or tech) to produce their own media. These groups often conduct their work in the projects, the ghettos, and the developing world—beyond the orbit of most potential donors. So we bring the story to them.
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Hollywood Connection: Our recent videos have included the narration and producer talents of high-profile celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Jeannie Tripplehorn and Academy Award Best Actor winners Adrien Brody and Sidney Poitier. Through their participation we continue to attract comparable talent from the industry for future projects.
It is our intention to relay stories of hope and inspiration. People support those who demonstrate the determination and heart to tackle difficult issues, and utilize media resources.
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Equally critical to success and unique in its approach is our partner, Motive Marketing (www.motivemarketing.biz) who provides each organization with its own comprehensive outreach plan for fundraising and marketing, in avenues tailored to each group's specific strengths and needs.
Research shows that visual media (such as graphics and video) enhance the viewer's comprehension and keeps them more engaged by up to 74% as opposed to only text or audio. Our eight to ten-minute video presentations immerse potential donors in the action of an organization, bridging the distance between donor and the world of the organization, be it a hospital, slum, athletic field or distant country.
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Associated Costs
The promotional films we produce are done at an 80 – 90% reduction in price to the grantee.*
Your Non-Profit Organization will be required to apply for a Promotional Video Grant. Please be aware that your organization will be responsible for 10-15% of the budget. This can be "paid" for example, through volunteer hours, money, providing housing and/or homemade meals for the crew. Thus, your participation is required, and is key to the production process. Please download the following PDF (works easily if you have broadband access) and refer to our contact information to mail or fax the form.
Click here to download a Promotional Video Grant Application (PDF).
We Keep Costs as Low as Possible
As technology has advanced, the price of equipment has decreased. Professional quality digital cameras and editing systems are now available at consumer prices. Because we come from a community of filmmakers, we are able to solicit the services of experienced and highly trained professionals at low to no cost.
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The core group of documentary filmmakers we work with already own most of the equipment necessary to make the videos. Often times the host non-profit group will cover some food and housing (within their own homes). But other hard costs, such as insurance, tape stock, repairs, periodic rentals, travel, and DVD printing, will need to come from grant money. Because documentary film crews operate more unobtrusively when kept to a minimum (2-4 people), we have the advantage, with rare exception, of not having to hire others.
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Average Cost Per Video: $24,000
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Average Return On Investment: $200,000
*We require Non-profit organizations to “pay” for a portion of their video (with money, volunteer hours, etc). Statistics show greater care is given when a personal investment is made.
An Essential Fundraising Tool
Fundraising allows organizations to share their mission with a wider audience, and further inspire loyal supporters. Reelaid videos introduce potential donors to the vision and achievements of the organization, and re-ignite the commitment of existing donors.
A fundraising video invites potential donors to join in the organization's efforts and become part of the circle of supporters. The video speaks to the inherent generosity of the viewer. And it shows how contributions of time, energy and money make possible an organization's achievements.
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The ideal video balances sobering statistics, compelling visuals, and human stories. The effect is simple yet memorable. For it is the human touch – the indelible images of real people, captured in real time – that forges the connection between an organization and its supporters.
Thousands of organizations around the globe work tirelessly to help make this world a better place. These groups strive to end poverty, promote peace, educate, fight the spread of disease, and clean our environment. Through the art of moving images, Reel Aid empowers organizations to find the funding and support they need to continue their vital work.