The Transformative Power of Inclusive Design: Special Olympics Illinois and ArtVersion Create a Visual Story of Impact

When the Special Olympics Illinois chapter embarked on the development of their digital and print report last year, they intended to convey a compelling visual narrative. The idea was to reflect their dedication to inclusivity and illustrate the organization’s impact, rather than merely compiling a list of accomplishments and statistics.

“We wanted our annual report to truly represent the diversity of our athletes and programs,” explained Kelsey Hogan Director of Development at Special Olympics. “It needed to be more than just data—it needed to capture the spirit of our mission and the stories of our community.”

The search led the team to ArtVersion, a Chicago-based creative agency known for their human-centered design approach. The collaboration would prove to be a perfect match, bringing together SOILL’s mission of inclusion with ArtVersion’s expertise in visual storytelling.

COLLABORATION FOR IMPACT

“What made this project special was the attention to detail in representing both male and female athletes and different regions across Illinois,” says Maddie Bennett, Experience Coordinator at ArtVersion. “Every image selection and story placement was purposeful, ensuring we created a balanced and engaging visual design.”

The project involved multiple stakeholders from both organizations, working together to refine every aspect of the report. The collaborative process included regular feedback sessions and iterative design improvements, ensuring that the final product would meet both aesthetic and organizational goals. Special Olympics athletes themselves participated in these sessions, providing invaluable feedback that helped ensure the report authentically represented their experiences and achievements.

DESIGN WITH PURPOSE

Accessibility stood at the forefront of ArtVersion’s design approach, with careful consideration given to both the digital and printed versions of the report. ArtVersion’s graphic design and web teams implemented rigorous accessibility standards throughout, incorporating high-contrast color combinations, easily legible typefaces, and clear hierarchical structures that would work effectively across all formats. Special attention was paid to ensuring that text remained readable at various sizes, and that color combinations met standards for contrast ratios, making the report accessible to readers with different visual abilities while maintaining its aesthetic appeal. 

• Creating a clear visual hierarchy through color coding
• Balancing storytelling with data presentation
• Ensuring gender representation throughout the document
• Integrating spotlight features that highlight personal impact stories
• Developing an intuitive layout that guides readers through the organization’s achievements

“We wanted to make sure that every design decision served the larger purpose of showcasing SOILL’s impact,” explains Maddie. “From the state map visualization to the spotlight features, each element was crafted to enhance the reader’s understanding of SOILL’s reach and influence.”

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

The design process involved careful consideration of every element, from photo selection, to text placement. Notable features included:

• A color-coded state map showing SOILL’s regional presence
• Integrated QR codes linking to additional digital resources
• Spotlight sections highlighting individual stories and achievements
• Strategic partner recognition showcasing key supporters
• Careful balance of visual elements and text to maintain engagement

EVOLVING THROUGH FEEDBACK

The project demonstrated the importance of iterative design and open communication. Regular feedback sessions allowed for continuous refinement, from adjusting image selections to fine-tuning corporate partner presentations.

“The collaborative spirit between our teams allowed us to make real-time adjustments that significantly improved the final product,” Maddie notes. “Whether it was updating story content or refining visual elements, every change was made with purpose.”

IMPACT AND RESULTS

The resulting work successfully achieved its goals of presenting SOILL’s impact while maintaining accessibility and visual appeal. The document serves as both an informative resource and a compelling narrative of the organization’s work across Illinois.

“What ArtVersion created wasn’t just an report—it’s a testament to our community’s strength and the power of inclusive design,” says Kelsey. “Every page reflects our commitment to the athletes and families we serve.”

The project exemplifies how thoughtful design can enhance organizational storytelling, making complex information accessible while maintaining emotional impact. Through careful attention to detail and collaborative iteration, ArtVersion and Special Olympics Illinois created a document that serves as both an informational tool and an inspiration for future initiatives.