When Debbie Nelson talks about her company, DNA Creative Communications, one word comes up repeatedly - "community."
The community Debbie talks about is Upstate, SC. It's where she founded her firm in 1997 with the goal of providing local organizations with public relations, grant-writing and event-planning services. As the business evolved, growing into a full-service communications firm, so did its name, from "Debbie Nelson & Associates" to "DNA Creative Communications." DNA refers to the genetic material in our cells…the core element of our identity. For Debbie and her team, DNA is the perfect name since it defines their approach and how they partner with their clients.
Understanding the DNA of each client's business and weaving it into a comprehensive public relations and communications program is a basic principle of the company today. DNA partners with its clients to analyze their strengths and challenges, then develops and executes strategies to communicate their brands and help them grow.
DNA serves a broad spectrum of organizations whose missions are to improve the quality of life. Key focus areas include housing, economic development, education, health care and the environment. In recognition of its work, the DNA team has received numerous awards, including the 2010 Mercury Award for Public Service from the South Carolina Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America, a variety of Matrix Awards from the Association of Women in Communications and the 2005 Small Business of the Year Award from the Greenville Chamber of Commerce.
DNA demonstrates its own commitment to the Upstate through its "Live Here Give Here" program, by donating its branding and public relations services to a local nonprofit each year. DNA also engages nonprofit organizations with its "Shine the Light on Your Nonprofit" seminar series which has helped more than 140 organizations learn how to strategically improve their communication efforts.
"This community is where we all work and call home," Debbie says. "The spirit of community is at the heart of our business."
