PortfolioDC Action

Empowering DC's Youth Through Strategic Web Design

We partnered with DC Action to overhaul their website, turning it into a user-friendly platform that amplifies their advocacy for Washington, DC’s youth.

DC Action website homepage displayed on a laptop, featuring a Youth Homelessness report with colorful illustrated cover.

About DC Action

DC Action is a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring that every child and youth in Washington, DC, grows up safe, resilient, empowered, and heard. Leveraging rigorous research, data analysis, and a deep commitment to racial equity, they collaborate across various sectors to dismantle barriers and build a unified, supportive system from early childhood through to adulthood. Their priorities include racial equity, early childhood, economic justice, education, health and safety, and democracy.

https://wearedcaction.org/

Business Type

Nonprofit

Business Location

Washington, DC

Services Provided

Information Architecture, Web Design, Web Development, Search Engine Optimization, Other

Two teenagers sitting at a skate park holding skateboards, with colorful abstract bubble shapes surrounding them.

Person browsing DC Action’s publication feed on a desktop computer, with colorful cards representing different reports and blog posts

The Challenge

DC Action's old website faced several challenges. The outdated design needed a refresh to align with modern standards. A poor user experience made it difficult for visitors to find specific publications and information, while content spread across multiple domains created further confusion. Additionally, the site's administrative backend was cumbersome, making it hard for staff to update content efficiently. These issues hindered DC Action's ability to effectively engage with their audience.

Tablet screen showing DC KIDS COUNT data dashboard with child demographics and economic justice statistics

The Solution

We tackled DC Action’s challenges head-on with a comprehensive redesign. We modernized their website’s look and feel to align with current design standards, streamlined the site’s architecture for intuitive navigation, and consolidated all content under a single domain to eliminate confusion. We also overhauled the administrative backend, making it easier for staff to update and manage content, ultimately enhancing DC Action’s ability to connect with and advocate for their community.

Screenshot of the DC Action Health & Safety webpage, featuring a smiling healthcare worker holding a baby and health data visuals

Mobile phone displaying a DC Action webpage with charts and statistics about child and youth population trends by age in Washington, DC.

“Following the merger of DC Action for Children and DC Alliance of Youth Advocates in 2020, our website became a confusing blend of content from both organizations. Surge Agency transformed this disarray into a streamlined, cohesive platform that not only embodies our unified mission but also makes it easier for visitors to navigate and our team to manage. Their expertise has been pivotal in enhancing our online presence and effectively engaging our community.”

Tawana JacobsDirector, Brand and Communications, DC Action

Project Components

Site Audit
Site Hierarchy
Visual Sitemap
Content Modeling
Wireframes
UI/UX Design
Conversion-Focused Design
Web Accessibility
Custom Development
On-Page SEO
Technical SEO
Content Migration