About us
Who we are and what we stand for
Purpose over product.
For the last decade, we've worked with hundreds of nonprofits to help them make lasting changes in they way they think about, measure, and report their impact.
We dont just provide a product or a service – we are committed to being a partner with a shared purpose to help you reach the most people and do the most good possible.
Values matter. These are ours.
Be Present
We show up with open ears, clear focus, and steady follow-through.
Be Curious
We ask the hard questions, chase the real “why,” and look for the simplest truth.
Be Bold
We stand by ideas and processes that pursue brilliance, even when it means being different.
Be accountable
We own outcomes, communicate clearly, and take responsibility from start to finish.
Be moved by something
We believe nonprofits are the force that makes communities better, and we care deeply about helping that work be seen and supported.
Our Story
Founder and herd leader, Cari Jones, has always had a passion for pachyderms. After being burned out creatively working as a designer and director at several creative agencies, Fortune 500 companies, and corporations, she took a unique opportunity to spend three years working as an Elephant Keeper at Zoo Miami, caring for both Asian and African Elephants in Miami, Florida.
That valuable time away from the world of corporate advertising and design was eye-opening. It led her to seek greater purpose when she returned to the "real world" to start Elephant Creative Company in 2016. She'll tell you the elephants taught her more about hard work, patience, trust, attitude, tone, and loyalty than any textbook or desk job.
Now, Cari and her team strive to emulate these same skills and attitudes she developed when caring for those larger-than-life creatures through the creative services and personal attention they provide to their nonprofit clients.
Meet The Herd
Cari Jones
President and Director of Brand Strategy
Cari brings more than 15 years of experience in branding, strategic communications, and nonprofit storytelling to Elephant Creative Co. Before founding the agency in 2016, she held creative leadership roles with agencies, nonprofit organizations, and Fortune 500 companies, helping mission-driven organizations communicate their impact more effectively. Today, she specializes exclusively in annual reports, helping nonprofits build trust, inspire generosity, and create reports that work long after they're published.
Work hard. Stay humble. Pay it forward. Have fun doing it.
Julie Pedretti
Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Julie brings more than 30 years of marketing and communications experience to the Elephant Creative Co. herd. Her previous director and executive-level roles for organizations such as Healthcare Network, NCH Healthcare System, Lee Health, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin make her both a non-profit pro and a healthcare sector guru. She currently serves as President of the Press Club of Southwest Florida, is on the board of the Gulf Coast Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and is a member of the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs.
Jason Peoples
Director of Creativity
Jason spent over 25 years as a designer and art director for both the printing industry and ad agencies before joining Elephant in early 2019. His can-do attitude and extensive ability to problem-solve through design are major assets to our clients and creative process. Jason's Midwestern kindness, unwavering work ethic, and ear for listening often make him our resident "client whisperer".
Cindy Weir
Operations Coordinator
With over 30 years experience in independent schools, non-profits, and small businesses, Cindy is dedicated to making a difference through her work. Her previous leadership roles in marketing, development, volunteer management, and operations provide an in-depth understanding of the many facets of non-profit organizations and small businesses. Cindy is an avid volunteer and believes non-profits embody the best of people - transforming lives through connection and mission. Her willingness to lend a hand and go the extra mile to get the job done right is what makes her shine.
Hans and Cleo
Pawsitive Relations Department
Every dog needs a job. These two trade-off titles between Directors of Distraction and Pawstive Relations Department on an hourly basis. Cleo is a 2017 proud alumnus of one of our clients, Humane Society Naples, and Hans is a 2020 "covid" dog addition from a rescue in Ohio. Together, they make sure that Zoom calls are never boring, packages never go unannounced, and opportunities for treats are never missed.
Ready for the next step?
Tell us what you are building and what is feeling messy. We will recommend the best starting point.