Website Redesign for AWARE Shelter: Empowering Survivors & Promoting Social Change

Creating a Compassionate, Accessible, and Empowering Digital Presence

Rooted Pixels partnered with AWARE, Inc. to redesign their website and strengthen their online presence as a leading voice for survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Jackson County, Michigan. AWARE’s mission—to eliminate domestic and sexual violence while promoting social change and empowering survivors—required a website that was not only informative but also compassionate, safe, and easy to navigate for individuals in crisis. Our goal was to create a modern, accessible digital platform that reflects AWARE’s values of collaboration, impact, empowerment, and commitment while connecting community members with critical resources and ways to get involved.

Project Goals and Objectives

The primary goal of the redesign was to create a user-focused website that serves both survivors seeking help and community members looking to support the organization. The site needed to communicate AWARE’s mission clearly, provide access to essential services, and inspire visitors to take meaningful action—whether through donations, volunteering, or education.

Key Features of the Website Design

The new AWARE Shelter website was built to balance sensitivity and clarity, providing immediate access to life-saving resources while sharing the organization’s broader vision for change. Key features include:

• Quick Escape Feature: A prominently placed “Quick Exit” button allows users in crisis to leave the site instantly for safety, a critical feature for domestic violence resource websites.
• Accessible Design: Clean navigation, readable typography, and ADA-compliant color contrast ensure the site is accessible for all users, including those with visual or cognitive impairments.
• Dedicated Services Pages: Each program—emergency shelter, counseling, advocacy, prevention, and outreach—is clearly explained with easy-to-find contact information.
• Get Help Section: Immediate access to hotline numbers, emergency contacts, and resources for survivors ensures those in need can connect with support quickly.

Empowering Visitors Through Thoughtful Content

AWARE’s message of hope and empowerment is woven throughout the website’s content. Rooted Pixels worked closely with AWARE to ensure all messaging reflects compassion, respect, and empowerment while maintaining a professional and trustworthy tone.

• Clear Calls-to-Action: Buttons such as “Get Help,” “Donate,” and “Volunteer” are strategically placed to encourage engagement and support.
• Mission and Core Values Highlighted: A dedicated section communicates AWARE’s mission statement and core values—Collaboration, Impact, Empowerment, and Commitment—to reinforce trust and purpose.
• Educational Resources: Informative pages outline warning signs of abuse, how to support survivors, and how to get involved in prevention efforts across the community.

Enhancing Community Engagement

The redesigned AWARE website goes beyond offering immediate assistance—it also serves as a hub for community connection and advocacy.

• Events & Awareness Campaigns: An events calendar and campaign highlights allow visitors to stay informed about local educational programs, fundraisers, and outreach opportunities.
• Volunteer & Donation Pages: Streamlined forms make it easy for individuals and organizations to contribute time, resources, or financial support to AWARE’s mission.
• News & Updates: A blog and announcement section helps AWARE share success stories, community partnerships, and advocacy milestones.

Optimized for Accessibility, Privacy, and SEO

Because AWARE serves a sensitive and vulnerable audience, privacy and discretion were top priorities. Rooted Pixels implemented best practices for secure hosting, data protection, and user safety. Additionally, the site was optimized for local and mission-based search terms to increase visibility for individuals and families in need of help.

• Secure Hosting & SSL Encryption: Ensures data privacy and user safety across all pages and forms.
• Local SEO Optimization: Optimized for searches such as “domestic violence help in Jackson County” and “sexual assault resources near me.”
• Performance Optimization: Fast load times and mobile responsiveness ensure users can access help quickly from any device.

Reflecting AWARE’s Mission & Core Values

Every aspect of the new website reflects AWARE’s core values:

• Collaboration: The design supports communication and partnership between survivors, staff, donors, and community organizations.
• Impact: The site empowers AWARE to reach more residents, raise awareness, and drive measurable social change across Jackson County.
• Empowerment: The language, design, and structure of the site encourage survivors to seek help and believe in the possibility of a life free from violence.
• Commitment: Every page reinforces AWARE’s unwavering dedication to compassion, advocacy, and ethical service.

Why Choose Rooted Pixels for Nonprofit Web Design

Rooted Pixels specializes in creating websites for nonprofits and community organizations that need to balance sensitivity, mission-driven storytelling, and usability. Our design approach ensures every visitor—whether a survivor, volunteer, donor, or advocate—can easily find the information and inspiration they need to take action.

Empower Your Mission with a Meaningful Online Presence

If your nonprofit or advocacy organization needs a modern website that builds trust, supports engagement, and amplifies your mission, Rooted Pixels can help. Contact Rooted Pixels today to learn how we can design a digital platform that empowers your community and drives positive change.