Case Study: Strengthening Community Bonds Through Storytelling: Portland’s Journey

Case Study: Portland's Story of Growth and Community

Facing rapid growth,

Portland, Texas sought to honor its roots while inspiring its future. Partnering with Knightstorm Productions, the city created “Building Community and Raising Families,” a heartfelt film that celebrated its values and showcased its vibrant identity. The campaign not only resonated with residents but also positioned Portland as a desirable destination for families and visitors alike.

Challenge

Portland, Texas has experienced a dramatic transformation, growing by 30% over the past decade. As the city expanded, leaders were determined to protect its core identity as a family-oriented, community-driven place while adapting to the challenges of industrial encroachment and rapid development. The city recognized the importance of strengthening civic pride, uniting residents, and sharing its story with potential visitors and future residents.

The question was clear: how do you celebrate growth while preserving what makes a place feel like home?

Solution

Knightstorm Productions partnered with the City of Portland to produce “Building Community and Raising Families,” a short film designed to capture the heart and soul of the city. The film told the generational story of a young girl growing up in Portland, returning to raise her own family, and eventually becoming a grandparent. The narrative seamlessly intertwined themes of family, growth, and belonging while highlighting Portland’s natural beauty and community assets.

To ensure authenticity, Knightstorm collaborated with local organizations and residents to bring the project to life

Local Landmarks:

Iconic sites like the Indian Point Pier and local parks showcased Portland’s outdoor lifestyle.

Community Involvement:

Scenes were filmed with support from the school district, where real students, athletes, and a well-known bus driver added genuine connection.

Festivals and Events:

Key moments were captured at the Windfest Festival, emphasizing the city’s vibrant traditions and community spirit.

Generational Symbolism:

A pivotal element featured a bracelet, passed through the film’s protagonist as she grew, symbolizing the enduring bonds of family and community.

Knightstorm’s approach prioritized collaboration, with city staff, local businesses, and residents providing resources, props, and time to ensure the film truly reflected Portland’s identity.

Building Community and Raising Families

Watch the Video

Execution

The film premiered at the 2023 State of the City luncheon, hosted by Mayor Cathy Skurow, in front of hundreds of attendees. The audience was captivated by the heartfelt storytelling and stunning visuals, sparking pride and meaningful conversations about Portland’s future. Following its debut, the film was shared across the city’s website, social media, and other digital platforms, reaching a wider audience of potential visitors and prospective residents.

Results

COMMUNITY PRIDE

Residents praised the film’s authenticity, with many expressing a renewed connection to their hometown

visitor interest

The video attracted inquiries from individuals considering relocation or visits, enhancing Portland’s reputation as a family-friendly destination.

digital reach

400% increased engagement on digital platforms across the U.S. and internationally.

national award

The video won a Gold Telly Award in branding, cementing its success as both a creative and strategic endeavor.

“Building Community and Raising Families” serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in community placemaking, resident pride and destination marketing. The film worked through blending emotional resonance with strategic intent, creating a film that not only celebrated Portland’s growth but also reinforced its identity as a place where families thrive and connections run deep. The project inspired pride, strengthened community bonds, and positioned Portland as a shining example of how to balance progress with purpose.

CASE STUDY // COMMUNITY PLACEMAKING

Case Study: Revitalizing Community Spirit Through Storytelling

When the city of Corpus Christi and the Downtown Management District sought to rejuvenate its downtown area, they turned to Knightstorm Productions to craft a narrative that would inspire both residents and visitors. Through a compelling video campaign, we highlighted the rich history, vibrant culture, and future potential of the community, leading to increased engagement and a renewed sense of pride among locals.

Full case study

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