Better yourself. To be better, you got to do better.
After a series of life-altering events that upended her path, Alisia Weaver was living on mantras. She took those mantras and gave them meaning, growing as a person and looking for work. But she hit walls at every turn; her past creating what felt like another prison cell—barring her from moving forward. And then it happened: a second chance, in the middle of Norway, Iowa.
Our recent video work highlighted Frontier Co-op’s Second Chance hiring program through the power of Alisia’s story.
Uncover & Understand
Frontier Co-op’s Second Chance hiring program offers employment to people with justice-involved backgrounds and other barriers. The program creates room for opportunity where before there was none. It has subsequently changed the trajectory of countless lives, and it was time to show that human impact. After meeting with Frontier’s team and internally, the goal became clear: showcase the humanity of this program through one person’s story told through video.
"I'm excited for my future. I know it's going to be good. I'm looking forward to it."
- Alisia Weaver
Ideate & Implement
The most important part of this video project was showing this story through the lens of both the person who benefitted and the people who made it possible. Telling a complete story meant including parole officers and Frontier employees who could add their perspective on Alisia’s transformation. Our video team went to work scouting locations, mapping out scene progression, and interviewing Alisia, Department of Correctional Services staff, and fellow Frontier employees.
Our cinematographer and producer took an embedded approach, going along with Alisia as she drove her son to daycare, started work, and interacted with coworkers. This level of access gives the video a personal feel—each scene not only telling Alisia’s story but moving it as you follow her early life, fall, and rise toward new opportunities.
Refine & Refresh
Our video team combed through footage and interview segments. They curated scenes that showed the positive impact Frontier Co-op’s Second Change program has had on Alisia’s life. The video foregoes traditional narration, instead making space for Alisia to tell her story. Alisha remains the focus throughout. This move allows everyone to see her for what she’s become. Her perspective grounds Frontier’s initiative in something real and human: the hope that comes with a fresh start.
The Refreshingly Meaningful Part
A vital community nonprofit gets a new website and a better way to engage with the public. Bringing substance use disorders out of the shadows with a site that’s true to their mission. That’s more than marketing; it’s potentially lifesaving work.
