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Place-based Impact in Union County, SC

NationSwell PROJECT
Place-based Impact in Union County, SC by NationSwell

credits

Title
  • Place-based Impact in Union County, SC
Entrant
  • NationSwell

About This Project

Summary

NationSwell partnered with the BlackRock Foundation to create a storytelling experience that uplifts the transformative impact of place-based investment. We went on the ground in Union County, SC, to co-create a multimedia case study featuring the voices of residents and funders. The project blends journalism, art, and strategy to center lived experience, spark dialogue, and inspire deeper investment in community-led change.

Goals & Objectives

To elevate rural voices and demonstrate what’s possible when communities and funders co-author stories of change. This project uses storytelling as a tool for education, reflection, and replication—inviting others to invest in long-term, community-rooted solutions.

Results & Impact

Though newly launched, the case study is already influencing how corporate and philanthropic leaders think about rural revitalization and community power. It has sparked deeper engagement, shaped cross-sector dialogue, and positioned Union County as a model for community-led impact.

the team

Minna Son
  • Senior Director, Studio Management & Strategy
  • NationSwell
Amy Lee
  • Chief Strategy Officer
  • NationSwell
Taylor Onderko
  • Program Manager
  • NationSwell
Brooke Josebachvili
  • Director, Growth Marketing
  • NationSwell
Daniel West
  • Vice President, Social Impact
  • BlackRock
Jessica Baird
  • Head of Employee Engagement, Social Impact
  • BlackRock
Sophie Luo
  • Producer and Filmmaker
Gianna Aquilina
  • Director of Photography
Brian Fannin
  • Assistant Camera
Kevin Murray
  • Location Sound Mixer
Ian Curcio
  • Still Photographer
Kyle Turgeon
  • Editor, Colorist, Sound Mixer
Marisa Asari