In the aftermath of the 2015 Memorial Day floods, the Blanco River surged to record levels, devastating Central Texas Hill Country. Hays County bore the brunt of the destruction, with over 2,000 homes damaged or destroyed and heartbreaking losses, including 11 lives and two missing children. Amid the overwhelming need, the United Way of Hays County spearheaded volunteer efforts to support recovery and rebuild the community.
United Way approached us to create a video documenting the local volunteer response, aiming to raise awareness and inspire donations from those outside the region. The video would highlight the grassroots coordination and dedication of citizens helping their neighbors recover from the disaster. We understood the emotional weight of the project and the importance of capturing the strength and compassion driving the recovery efforts.
Our team traveled to Martindale, Texas, where we filmed a bustling supply and equipment distribution center hosted by a local church. We also visited a community along the Blanco River to witness firsthand the devastation and hear stories of resilience. Using interviews, natural sound, and candid footage, we wove together a narrative that brought these stories to life. Balancing the gravity of the situation with a message of hope, we crafted a video that honored the volunteers and the lives affected by the tragedy.
The resulting video serves not only as a document of the time but also as an ongoing tool for United Way to demonstrate the impact of community solidarity and the critical role of organized volunteer response in times of crisis. The video was integral to a social media campaign aimed at raising awareness and soliciting donations. It highlighted the urgent needs of the flood victims and the tangible benefits of every contribution, encouraging viewers to support the rebuilding process. It highlights the real difference made by the United Way and its volunteers, reinforcing the importance of community support and preparedness for future emergencies.
