Project Spotlight: Operation Albatross

ABR Creative was proud to build the website for Operation Albatross (OA).

This small non-profit supports local veteran families through the sale of customized laser-engraved products. The site’s dual purpose presented a key challenge for us as designers. The new website needed to convey both the charitable mission of Operation Albatross as well as the retail nature of the organization.

When we began, OA already had a logo in place, so the existing branding drove some of our decisions. ABR strictly adheres to brand guidelines, and we were careful to work within OA’s existing logo and design concept.

First, we considered the compelling story of OA’s history and its charitable mission.

ABR developed a design that tells the moving story behind the founding and the mission of the organization. Mike Hamlin is a proud veteran of the US Marines. His wife Rachel had worked for agencies that support veterans, and she constantly encountered gaps in the services available to her clients in need.  After years of trying to find a way to help local veterans through traditional channels, the Hamlins took matters into their own hands and created Operation Albatross. Unlike many other organizations that retain some funds for operating and personnel expenses, OA passes on 100% of their proceeds to help veterans in need. This was a unique aspect of this non-profit and one we needed to highlight prominently—so it appears on the top banner of the home page.

It was also critical to convey the direct impact the organization has had supporting local veterans and their families—but there were obvious confidentiality concerns, so photos and names could not be used. Lacking images, ABR Creative came up with a design that conveyed the impact of OA’s work while protecting their clients—we used short, crisp copy, varied fonts, and text boxes laid out in a visually clean yet engaging way to tell the stories of how Operation Albatross supported veterans facing crises. We showcased how OA helped veterans avoid losing their homes, their cars, or cover funeral expenses, all while maintaining their clients’ privacy.

Second, we addressed the products and the process.

To generate funds to support veterans in need, OA sells custom-lasered quality products such as glassware, wooden signs, coasters, insulated tumblers, keychains, hats, etc.

Unlike the client services section, the product page had no confidentiality concerns. We were able to design a gallery display showing attractive photos of the high-quality engraved items OA sells: insulated tumblers, coasters, scented candles, keychains, baseball caps, etc. We also shared customer testimonials touting the excellent service, quick turnaround, precision lasering, and variety of options available.

We also created a contact page that enables prospective customers to fill out an inquiry form for greater efficiency, or email directly if preferred. Because a vast majority of users access websites through mobile devices, we ensured that the site was mobile-optimized.

Mike Hamlin, Co-Founder of Operation Albatross describes the process:

"ABR Creative made it easy. They listened to our goals and needs for the site, and they told our story effectively.  More importantly, they told the stories of the veterans we help respectfully and maintained confidentiality. They were responsive, they worked quickly, and now our website does exactly what we need it to do."  

Our approach with OA was the same with every client:  WE LISTEN. ABR knows that every business and organization is different, and we prioritize understanding the needs and goals of each client. We take the time to learn at the beginning to deliver a successful solution at the end.

ABR Creative thanks Operation Albatross for their business and congratulate them on the successful launch of their website.  We applaud them for the impact they have on veterans in need, and wish them success as they expand their reach and advance their mission.