Graphic design for the nonprofits doing the hardest, most important work

At Acton Circle, we design for nonprofits and foundations improving education, health, and community well-being who don’t want to look like everyone else.

We turn your annual report into a story that builds trust, stirs emotion, and keeps donors on the edge of their seat—then extend that story into tools that keep your impact working long after launch.
Black and white photo of a small wooden house with steps leading to a front porch surrounded by trees and bushes.Open brochure showing messages from executive director, 2024 milestones with photos of diverse people, financial accountability, and community engagement highlights.Olivia smiling and seated in a cane-back chair against an olive green backdrop
You got into this work because your mission is so important. But somewhere along the way the story stopped connecting the way it should. Designs pieced together last minute, packed with too much text, and tough on the eyes.

And I say that with so much grace. I don't question your mission or your dedication for a second. But when the design doesn't match the heart behind it, donors skim. Board members zone out. And the opportunities you've earned keep slipping by.

It doesn't have to be that way.

That’s where belief-building design changes everything. Not decoration or the cherry on top, but design that shows you walk the talk, makes people feel something, and shows the world you're as serious about your presence as you are about your mission.

That’s why I built Acton Circle.
After years in the Bay Area design world I wanted to dedicate my work to people actually changing communities. Acton Circle exists to help you turn your mission into design that builds belief.

Our work goes beyond annual reports (though you know we love a good one). It's about helping you show up with design that finally matches the depth of your mission and looks every bit as strong as your work happening in classrooms, clinics, community centers, and city streets.

And for me, it’s personal. Acton Circle is named after the street where my grandparents lived. The place where my creativity and faith first came alive. It’s a daily reminder to keep first things first (the people and the why that started it all).

That same sense of purpose runs through every project we take on. If that resonates with you, I'd love to work together.
Olivia Wheeler
Founder and Creative Director

Your Creative Squad

The crew that turns your data, your story, and your mission into something supporters can't put down.
Firsta Nisriina
Designer
Krista Reyes
Content Writer
Olivia Wheeler
Creative Director

Our promise to you

Every piece we create will embody your mission and look like it came from people who genuinely care about your work, because we do.

We also refuse to let "strategic design" become code for endless back-and-forth and blown deadlines. You get clear processes, realistic timelines, and materials built to work everywhere—board presentations, donor conversations, social campaigns, and everything in between.

And when it all comes together, your team shows up confident, your stakeholders understand quickly, and the people you serve benefit from stronger communication.

That's the standard we hold ourselves to. Every single time.

Our Values

We're creatives, yes. But really we're translators. The bridge between the complexity of your work and the clarity your supporters need to believe in it.

Mission-First Design

We start with the heart of your work. Our approach prioritizes storytelling that helps donors feel the change you’re creating before they ever reach the numbers.

Year-Round Value

Your annual report becomes a system for campaigns, stewardship, board updates, and outreach—keeping your mission top-of-mind long after release.

Abstract icon with olive and dark brown petal shapes radiating from a light blue center circle

Depth Over Decoration

Every choice, from hierarchy to imagery to typography, reflects your mission and audience. We create storytelling and fundraising assets that are credible and deeply aligned with the work itself.

Abstract icon with an olive semicircle balanced on a dark brown rectangle base and a light blue circle above

No Settling

We aim for work that sets a new standard: design that strengthens donor and supporter confidence and matches the excellence already inside your organization.

From the orgs we’ve partnered with

They were where you are. Here's what shifted.

Mission-Driven Partnerships

We partner with organizations building stronger communities through real, everyday work.

10,000 Degrees logo
abode logo
barhii logo
bcpp logo
Chiron Community Giving Foundation logo
CORA Community Overcoming Relationship Abuse logo
East Bay Community Foundation logo
Making Waves Academy logo
Logo with stylized blue waves above the text 'MAKING WAVES Education Foundation'.
NACCHO National Association of County and City Health Officials logo
National Writing Project logo
peninsula family service logo
Tides logo

Tired of design that doesn’t reflect the depth of your work?

Let's change that.