Gillis | for children and families since 1870

Gillis Stories - "A New Look for Gillis" Story

A logo is one of the tools of branding, which is a form of relationship building. Three years ago, the Gillis communications committee began to analyze the
organization’s logo with the intent of providing a “refresh” that would support Gillis’ efforts to build a stronger relationship with the Kansas City community.

The team worked closely with Blacktop Creative, a Kansas City-based branding agency whose co-founder Mike Miller serves on the Gillis board of directors. The refresh process included asking some basic questions about Gillis’ identity and visibility in the community. We found, with much input, that not enough people know about Gillis and the important services it provides.

The communications committee, which included Gillis staff, board members and volunteers, reviewed many possible designs before settling on the one pictured here. Each element of the refreshed logo helps convey something important about Gillis, and all were selected with care.

The circle…
… represents community and inclusiveness
… is calm and has no hard angles
…. is strong and resembles a seal

The tree …
… represents protection, strength, growth and knowledge
… implies a solid foundation (history and deep roots)
… is a symbol of rebirth and regeneration

The colors also have meaning:
… deep blue symbolizes strength, trust, calm and acceptance
… warm green represents harmony, balance, peace and friendliness

It is the team’s hope that the refreshed logo be used by Gillis staff and supporters to increase our visibility in Kansas City, instill pride in the work we do and further our mission of helping Kansas City's at-risk children and families become contributing members of the community - with education, counseling and social services.

Stories

Derik came to Gillis because he was having difficulty at his home school. He didn’t want to listen to anyone and didn’t want to play with the other kids; sometimes he would hit and kick. He was sent to the Principal’s office several times a week and his mom was called to pick him up from school often. He was diagnosed with a mood disorder. Gillis was recommended as a school which could help Derrick.

Read full story

Gillis News

As part of their community service hours at Rockhurst High School, two young men volunteered at Gillis, working with the residential students. One day they looked around and realized that the common areas were not what they, as “typical” teenagers, would like to look at every day. So, they undertook a cottage renovation project. READ MORE

Gillis is part of Cornerstones of Care, a partnership of agencies providing therapeutic treatment services for children and families.