Telling Real Stories: Case Study Video for National Non-profit in Oakland, CA
When a national non-profit like Education SuperHighway wants to showcase their real-world impact, they know the power of a well-told story. In 2023, I partnered with them to create a compelling case study video centered on a residency in Oakland, CA. The goal? To illustrate how something as essential as Wi-Fi can transform lives, and to show the human face of their mission to close the digital divide.
This project was especially meaningful because it told the story of Dotti, a passionate yoga instructor who found new opportunities and a stronger sense of home thanks to accessible internet. This wasn’t just another client project. It was a deeply personal glimpse into what access and equity really look like when they’re in action.
In this post, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes process of this shoot, the story we captured, and how video services like this can help non-profits drive engagement, funding, and trust.
Why Non-profits Need Story-Driven Video Content
If you’re a non-profit organization doing work that truly changes lives, you already know that impact matters. But how do you communicate that impact in a way that moves people to care and take action?
That’s where video comes in.
A case study video is more than a highlight reel. It’s a way to:
Humanize your mission through real people and stories.
Show funders the tangible results of their support.
Share successes with donors, stakeholders, and the public.
Build a connection between your audience and the people you serve.
For national non-profits operating across various cities and communities, localized storytelling is key. You need someone who understands how to bring your mission to life visually while staying efficient, resourceful, and aligned with your brand voice.
Project Overview: A Case Study Video in Oakland, CA
Education SuperHighway is a national non-profit on a mission to close the digital divide by providing high-speed internet to low-income apartment buildings across the U.S. In Oakland, they partnered with a local residency to bring free Wi-Fi to tenants, and they needed a case study video to show what that impact looked like on the ground.
That’s where I came in. As a one-person video team, I took on the full production process:
Creative producing and concept development
On-location filming and interview direction
Equipment and lighting setup
Editing, sound design, and final post-production
The deliverables included a polished 2-minute case study video and several short-form cuts designed for use on social media platforms.
Meet Dotti: A Story of Access, Empowerment, and Connection
At the heart of this video was Dotti, a longtime Oakland resident and passionate yoga teacher. Before the installation of reliable Wi-Fi in her building, she faced challenges with connectivity that made everything from job applications to streaming yoga classes a struggle.
Once Education SuperHighway brought high-speed internet into her apartment complex, everything changed.
She was able to:
Apply for a new job and land an opportunity.
Complete her yoga teaching license.
Host friends and community members with ease.
Stream and learn without interruption.
Dotti’s story is symbolic of so many working-class people in cities like Oakland. She’s driven, community-minded, and determined to grow—but lacking access to digital tools was holding her back. The video captured not just her gratitude, but her joy and confidence in this new chapter of life.
🎬 Behind the Scenes: How I Brought the Story to Life
This video came together through a blend of strategic planning and creative storytelling. Here’s how I approached it:
Pre-Production and Story Planning
I worked closely with the non-profit’s team to understand their goals, audience, and messaging tone. From there, I developed a light story arc and interview questions to help Dotti open up naturally on camera.
Production Approach
As a Bay Area video producer for non-profits, I know the value of being nimble and efficient. I provided all my own gear, lighting, and sound equipment to keep things smooth. I captured:
Interview footage with Dotti in her apartment, using natural light and a casual setting to keep it authentic.
Drone shots of the apartment complex and surrounding neighborhood to establish location and scale.
B-roll of Dotti working, practicing yoga, and interacting in her space.
An interview with the building’s landlord, who shared his perspective on how connectivity has improved quality of life for tenants.
Post-Production
The edit was designed to balance emotion and clarity. I cut the 2-minute main video to be shareable and digestible, while still delivering a full narrative arc. I also created shorter 30-60 second cuts for Instagram and LinkedIn.
Why Non-profits Choose Local Video Creators in the Bay Area
National organizations often face the challenge of finding skilled, reliable creatives in different regions. For Education SuperHighway, it was crucial to find a local video producer who could handle the full scope of the project in the San Francisco Bay Area.
That’s where I come in.
I offer video services that combine:
Efficiency – I operate as a full-service, one-person team.
Creativity – My approach is always rooted in story and emotion.
Professionalism – Timely delivery, polished visuals, and open communication.
And most importantly, I understand the non-profit world: the budget constraints, the approvals, the heart behind every mission.
Bridging the Digital Divide
This story isn’t just about one person. It’s about the broader issue of access. During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, it became clear that digital connection is essential for everything from education to employment to basic human connection.
Education SuperHighway is working to solve that on a national level, and I was honored to help them visualize the impact.
If your non-profit is telling powerful stories, a video case study like this can be one of the most effective tools in your communications toolkit.
Ready to Tell Your Organization’s Story?
Whether you're a national non-profit expanding your impact or a local community initiative building momentum, a well-crafted video can amplify your mission and connect you with the people who matter most. I offer video services for non-profit organizations throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, and I’d love to help you bring your next story to life.
