Client Spotlight: FOTE

At its core, From Ordinary to Extraordinary (FOTE) is building systems that help people change the trajectory of their entire future.

Founded by Dr. Antoria Gillon, FOTE supports survivors of domestic violence and childhood trauma through accredited career training, transitional housing, peer counseling, and holistic wraparound support. Their mission is centered on helping women achieve long-term self-sufficiency, economic stability, and personal transformation.

Through programs like the FOTE School of Beauty and Barbering and Global Medical Institute, participants receive far more than vocational education. FOTE’s approach is deeply human, focused not just on employment, but on helping survivors rebuild confidence, stability, and independence. 

Parklife has had the privilege of partnering with FOTE through the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Social Innovation Accelerator (SIA), supporting their organization during a critical season of growth. 

Building a Stronger Brand Foundation

Our work with FOTE began with a comprehensive brand refresh designed to better reflect the strength behind their mission. 

This included refining their messaging, elevating their visual identity, and making strategic copy and design updates to their website. The goal was to create stronger alignment between the impact FOTE creates every day and how that impact is communicated to donors, partners, and the broader community. 

As their organization continues to grow, establishing a clear and cohesive brand foundation became an important step toward expanding their reach and strengthening community engagement.

Preparing for Demo Day and The Pitch

Following the brand work, Parklife supported FOTE as they prepared for Demo Day and The Pitch through the Social Innovation Accelerator. 

Our team worked alongside FOTE to refine presentation materials, strengthen slide decks, and sharpen storytelling and messaging ahead of their live presentations. Through pitch workshops led by Parklife’s Brian Castle and Carly Martinelli alongside SIA leadership, fellows focused on simplifying visuals and strengthening narratives.

Celebrating a Major Win

We were thrilled to see FOTE recognized at The Pitch for the incredible work they’re doing across their community.

FOTE took home multiple awards during the competition, including the Impact Award and Presentation Prize, along with accelerator funding support, totaling $60,000 in funding to help further their mission and expand their impact.

It was an exciting and well-deserved moment for an organization creating meaningful change in the lives of so many women and families.

Looking Ahead

We’re proud to continue supporting FOTE as they grow. Moving forward, Parklife is excited to provide additional copywriting, design, and creative support to help amplify their mission and connect with even more people.

Organizations like FOTE are a powerful reminder that storytelling, strategy, and thoughtful branding can help mission-driven work reach farther and impact more lives.

If your organization is ready to strengthen its messaging, elevate its brand, and tell its story more effectively, contact us today.