A fundraising film that clarified identity and strengthened community alignment
Politz Day School needed to articulate who they were to a broad and diverse Jewish community — without compromising their Orthodox identity. I produced a film that clarified their mission and became the centerpiece of a campaign that significantly outperformed the previous year’s effort.
Watch the filmChallenge
Competing schools were emerging in the region, forcing Politz to clarify what distinguished it.
The school needed to reaffirm its Orthodox identity while serving a religiously diverse community.
A major fundraising campaign required broad community buy-in.
How do you articulate a clear identity that strengthens internal alignment and inspires external generosity — without diluting who you are?
Process
We identified the convictions that had common ground across the community and centered the message around those shared truths — rather than highlighting benefits that only resonated with one segment.
We structured the film around a shared recitation of the mission statement, turning abstract language into visible ownership across students and staff.
The film acknowledged visible differences in background and expression while anchoring them in a clear, unapologetic commitment to Torah and community.
Results
The film became the centerpiece of a fundraising campaign where the school raised over $500,000 in 24 hours — a 400% increase over the previous year.
Lay leaders reported renewed confidence in articulating the school’s mission to donors and community members.
The film continued circulating beyond the campaign, supporting donor meetings and broader community engagement.
As Director of Philanthropy Alisha Abboudi noted: “Working with Serio helped us message who we are, distinguish ourselves amongst other schools, and engender incredible pride… This video moved donor after donor to an increased level of giving.”
