Building on an inspiring inaugural year of diverse pro bono partnerships, Wray Ward is opening its EmpoWWer service-grant program for new applications Oct. 1, 2019. Created to support 501(c)(3) community initiatives in the greater Charlotte area, EmpoWWer pairs local nonprofit organizations with the creative agency’s resources of time and talent.

“In its first year, EmpoWWer provided us with an incredible opportunity to enrich our long history of giving back to our community,” said Jennifer Appleby, president and chief creative officer of Wray Ward, which has served Charlotte for more than 40 years through countless pro bono and in-kind partnerships with area nonprofits.

EmpoWWer formalized the agency’s history of social responsibility with four recipients in 2019: Digi-Bridge, The Relatives, SHARE Charlotte and Charlotte Is Creative. The services and programs provided to this year’s partners range from search strategy to public relations and social media planning to brand platform development to direct marketing.

“Working with Wray Ward was an incredible experience,” said Trish Hobson, executive director, The Relatives. “Their talented staff developed a brand platform that tells our story with words and images that are compelling and emotional and created media relations and social media plans that already are generating results. Because of the personalized service from Wray Ward, we will help our entire community understand that The Relatives steps in to help youth in crisis where no one else can.”

Applications for 2020 EmpoWWer will be accepted through Nov. 30, 2019. Applicants must explain their background, mission and project request, including how they will impact change in the community and align with Wray Ward’s goals for EmpoWWer. Framed by three pillars — creativity, shelter and advancement — EmpoWWer reflects the agency’s personal passions and industry expertise, and the agency focuses its community support initiatives on strong applications that connect to one of these pillars.

“Charlotte isn’t just where we live, but also where we work, play, learn, create, share and grow,” said Appleby. “EmpoWWer lets us use our gifts for good in so many ways, and we’re excited to see what we can do for Charlotte in 2020.”

Wray Ward will accept applications for EmpoWWer service grants October 1 through November 30 and notify selected organizations in January 2020. All projects submitted during this period must be completed by Dec. 31, 2020. To learn more, please visit empowwer.wrayward.com.