Jason Lehecka

Role: Creative Director, Art Director
Client: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Year: 2025

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Overview

In the wake of a disaster, survivors face immense stress and uncertainty. To reduce confusion and improve access to critical resources, FEMA launched a video series that guides disaster survivors through the process of applying for assistance. As Creative Director, I led the development of a compassionate, accessible, and informative video campaign that delivers clarity during a chaotic time.

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The Challenge

Survivors often struggle to understand the steps involved in registering for assistance, meeting eligibility requirements, and navigating follow-up communications. Existing materials were text-heavy and difficult to digest, particularly for audiences with low literacy or limited English proficiency. The challenge was to translate complex processes into clear, actionable, and emotionally supportive visual content.

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The Solution

We developed a series of concise, easy-to-understand explainer videos covering each stage of the disaster assistance journey—from registration to inspections to appeals. The videos use plain language, inclusive visuals, and a warm, reassuring tone. Animation and voiceover were carefully crafted to reflect diverse audiences and ensure accessibility.

Key Features:

• Step-by-step guidance on applying for FEMA assistance

• Multilingual voiceovers and captions for broader reach

• Designed for use across FEMA.gov, social media, and field operations

• Built-in accessibility features (open captions, visual clarity, voice tone)

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Creative Elements Included:

Custom illustrations representing natural disasters

Rotating visual narratives across social and video

Digital banners and app store assets

Copywriting focused on action and empathy

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The Results

• Improved Survivor Engagement: Videos increased comprehension and reduced repeat inquiries to FEMA helplines.

• Enhanced Equity in Communication: Multilingual and inclusive formats expanded reach to historically underserved communities.

• Operational Impact: Field staff reported increased efficiency in helping survivors when videos were deployed at Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs)

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