Case Study: Mission-Driven AV for KidVantage’s Helping Kids Thrive Event
How KidVantage took their presenters from nervous to memorable with Live Oak’s Feminist Guide to Presenting
As an organization that provides more than 7 million essential items through a collaborative partner network, KidVantage ensures children experiencing economic insecurity or family disruptions have what they need to grow, play, and thrive. But bringing those stories to life—through heartfelt videos and live storytelling—meant empowering their panelists, many of whom are social workers and program staff unaccustomed to speaking in front of hundreds.
That’s where Live Oak AV came in, not only delivering seamless AV support but also providing our Feminist Guide to Presenting, a resource that helped turn nervous speakers into confident storytellers. The result? An impactful event that inspired donors, showcased KidVantage’s mission, and amplified the voices of those on the frontlines of support.
Transforming a Benefit Luncheon into a Mission-Driven Experience
The Helping Kids Thrive benefit luncheon, held each November, is more than a fundraiser. It’s an opportunity to showcase KidVantage’s impact, rally community support, and inspire donors through storytelling. The event featured:
- Compelling Videos: Three heartwarming stories illustrating KidVantage’s mission, including testimonials from families and service providers.
- The Help the Helpers Panel: A live discussion featuring social workers, teachers, and counselors sharing real-life stories of how KidVantage transforms the lives of children.
Kim Christensen, KidVantage’s former Senior Manager of Development, emphasized the high stakes of the event:
“This luncheon isn’t just about raising money—it’s also about raising awareness. It’s our biggest opportunity to introduce ourselves to new supporters, update our community, and share how we’re making a difference together.”
To pull off this storytelling showcase, KidVantage relied on Live Oak AV’s expertise.
Photo credit: Lydia Brewer Photography
From Planning to Execution: A Partnership Built on Trust
From the initial planning call to event execution, Live Oak AV’s approach stood out to Kim:
- Planning & Preparation: The collaboration began with a 30-minute call that set a tone of efficiency and understanding.
“I really loved that initial 30-minute conversation. It felt so effective and efficient.”
- Onsite Support: Live Oak AV’s team was flexible and resourceful, pivoting seamlessly when faced with a tight morning setup schedule.
“There were moments during the program where we had to switch decisions quickly, and the Live Oak team pivoted seamlessly. They were so kind, responsive, and made us feel like a priority.” Kim recalled.
- Shared Mission:
“I’ve never worked with an AV company that felt so mission-driven. It felt like partnering with a like-minded organization that truly understands and shares our values.” Kim noted.
Empowering Nervous Speakers to Shine with Confidence
Kim called out that the Feminist Guide to Presenting was a unique resource for them that instantly made her know Live Oak aligned with their mission. The resource is designed to empower speakers, particularly those with limited public speaking experience.
When Crystal sent over the resource after the initial planning call, Kim immediately saw its value:
“The guide offered practical tips on lighting, microphones, and managing nerves, which were incredibly helpful for our speakers. I can see myself using this resource again in the future—it’s just that valuable.”
Kim even incorporated the guide into coaching sessions with the panelists, boosting their confidence and ensuring their stories resonated with the audience.
“The guide wasn’t just a presentation tool—it reflected Live Oak AV’s mission-driven approach, which really spoke to me. It’s rare to find an AV company that aligns so closely with our values.”
Amplifying Voices, Capturing Hearts
One of the event’s standout moments was the Help the Helpers Panel, where attendees were captivated by powerful, personal stories.
“The room was silent—everyone was watching. If people can’t hear or see, the story isn’t heard. Live Oak AV made sure every voice was clear, and every story was seen,” Kim explained.
Photo credit: Lydia Brewer Photography
Onsite Excellence: Kindness, Flexibility, and Expertise
Live Oak AV’s onsite team went above and beyond to ensure the event’s success. Kim praised their professionalism and adaptability:
“Our program had last-minute changes, and the Live Oak team handled it seamlessly. They were so kind and responsive, and they made us feel like a priority.”
Kim specifically called out Crystal, Live Oak’s project manager, for her exceptional support:
“Crystal is a pure delight. She answers emails at crazy hours, is incredibly detail-oriented, and genuinely cared about making our event shine. She even humored our quirky committee’s obsession with S-hooks for decorations, which made everyone feel supported.”
Shared Mission, Shared Impact
For Kim, working with Live Oak AV felt like partnering with a like-minded organization:
“They’re women-owned, mission-driven, and they just get it. I’ve never worked with an AV company that felt like such a good fit. They were professional, efficient, and genuinely kind.”
Kim’s favorite part of working at KidVantage is helping children and families in need. She sees the Thrive Luncheon as a vital part of that mission:
“We help the helpers—school counselors, case managers, and social workers—stabilize families. It’s so rewarding to know we’re making a direct impact, and Live Oak AV helped us amplify that message.”
A Partnership That Thrives
With Live Oak AV’s support, KidVantage raised critical funds and inspired new supporters, all while celebrating their mission. The partnership showcased what’s possible when two values-driven organizations come together.
About KidVantage
KidVantage empowers children and families by providing essential items through a collaborative network of service providers. Learn more about their mission and how you can help at KidVantage.org.
About Live Oak AV
Live Oak AV empowers nonprofits to tell their stories through expert AV solutions and tools like the Feminist Guide to Presenting, ensuring every event leaves a lasting impact. Together, Live Oak AV and KidVantage proved that when storytelling and technology align, communities thrive.