Create Chemistry.
Stand Taller.
We help credit unions solve problems in smart, creative ways. Our team shows up with heart, curiosity, and ideas that spark connection. We listen, we learn what matters, and we bring your vision to life.
We’re grateful to work alongside the folks who put financial well-being first. When you’re out there changing lives, we’re right there with you, helping your message stand taller and impossible to ignore.
What We Do
We help credit unions tell the kind of stories that get people to lean in. Design with purpose. Creative that clicks. That’s how movements grow and how communities feel stronger.
We partner with credit unions, leagues, associations, and system partners who want their work to matter more. From brand building to campaigns that spark action, we help turn your ideas create chemistry.
Discovery
We start by learning about your big goals, your vision, and the people you want to reach. This helps us build the foundation for everything we create. Working together, we will discover what makes you truly stand out.
Execution
We turn smart ideas into brand moments people remember. Brand articulations that feel like you. Campaigns and videos that light a spark. Our team works alongside yours like an extension of your crew, collaborating to help you stand taller.
Application
Across every touchpoint, we create consistent and memorable brand experiences that help you stand taller and build stronger connections. No matter where people meet your brand, it should feel unmistakably you.
Why We Do It
We believe the credit union movement is full of quiet giants. People who are doing real good every day, often without the spotlight. We love to help them succeed.
We show up with curiosity, creativity, and a deep respect for the people we partner with. We listen. We learn what matters. And we build work that helps credit unions connect in ways that feel real and drive change. When our clients win, communities win too.
Just like the giraffe, with its big heart and towering stance, we believe in leading with authenticity and staying true to who you are.
When you create chemistry with your audience and honor your values, you naturally stand taller in your market.
Create Chemistry.
Stand Taller.
That’s gira{ph}.
Work We Do
Centric’s Sprout
Centric Credit Union
Centric Credit Union wanted a fresh way to help kids feel excited about money. We created Sprout, a cheerful guide who turns saving and learning into something fun. He shows up across the youth program with a simple purpose: help kids grow confident with money from the very beginning.
Sprout’s design is bright, approachable, and easy to connect with. He celebrates little wins like depositing allowance or reaching a savings goal. Through games, activities, and storytelling, he gives kids a character they can learn from and look forward to seeing.
Brand Articulation
Element Federal Credit Union
The Brand Articulation is a process designed to capture the heart of an organization and articulate it as a clear, cohesive identity.
We begin by conducting in-depth interviews with everyone from front-line tellers to the executive team and board members. These conversations reveal the authentic values, personality, and purpose that drive credit unions every day.
For Element, we distilled those insights into a complete brand framework: a document that not only defines who they are, but includes tone of voice, brand attributes, and storytelling elements, paired with design standards like color palettes, typography, imagery styles, and graphic treatments. The result is a strategic guide that empowers Element to communicate consistently and confidently at every touchpoint.
Our work for Element reflects their fearless, innovative spirit and local roots. Through earthy textures, vibrant accent colors, and bold typography, we captured a brand that feels authentic, welcoming, and distinctly in its element.
Modernization Launch + Communications
Credit Union House - Washington, DC
Credit Union House in Washington, DC has always been a home base for advocacy. A place where credit union leaders, state leagues, and lawmakers connect to move the mission forward. In 2024, the vision for that space grew. The board approved a modernization that will transform Credit Union House into an immersive advocacy experience. Instead of a traditional venue, it will become a living story of credit union impact, felt from hometowns to Capitol Hill.
Giraph helped kick off this next chapter by developing clear messaging and visuals that captured the why behind the project. We worked closely with the team to communicate how the reimagined Credit Union House will elevate the conversation, strengthen relationships, and show the real difference credit unions make.
The effort debuted at GAC, where the new narrative set the tone for a space built to spark connection and understanding. Next up: a full brand refresh to bring this future-focused vision to life.
Brand Articulation
Revity Federal Credit Union
The Brand Articulation process gives an organization the space to explore who it is at its core and translate that into a clear, unified identity that feels true in every setting. For Revity, we met with staff across the credit union to understand what drives their work. Those conversations helped surface the values, personality traits, and everyday moments that define the Revity experience.
We shaped those insights into a full brand framework that outlines their voice, key attributes, and narrative themes. The guide also includes the visual standards that support the story, from color and typography to imagery, icons, and graphic patterns. It offers a foundation that helps Revity communicate with consistency and confidence.
Revity’s brand reflects a spirit of energy, connection, and optimism. Through bright color, friendly type, and flexible graphic elements, we created a look and feel that supports their mission to help people move forward with clarity and confidence.
MAXX Conference & CU4Kids Auction
GoWest Credit Union Association
MAXX brings credit union leaders together for a packed week of learning, inspiration, and connection. gira{ph} builds the full visual identity for the event each year and carries it through the entire environment so the experience feels unified from the moment attendees arrive.
Our work includes stage and screen design, venue signage, wayfinding, expo hall branding, and the many small touchpoints that shape how people move through the space. The goal is a conference that feels polished, modern, and easy to navigate, with a clear sense of energy that represents the GoWest community.
The CU4Kids Auction is one of the most anticipated parts of MAXX. gira{ph} creates an identity for the evening that fits the larger conference yet has its own personality. Each element is designed to elevate the cause and create a warm, memorable night that brings people together to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Landings Mission I’m Possible
Landings Credit Union
Landings Credit Union wanted to show members that reaching big financial goals can feel like an adventure, not a chore. Mission: I’m Possible turns everyday banking into a personal quest where members get to be the hero.
We built the campaign around a playful secret agent theme. Clever headlines, coded clues, and bold visuals encouraged members to take action, from lowering monthly payments to saving more each month. Each piece pointed toward one idea: your next move can open new possibilities.
Waterfront Octoberfest
Waterfront Federal Credit Union
Waterfront wanted a fun seasonal promo that would get members excited about upgrading their ride before winter. Our team brewed up an Oktoberfest-inspired campaign that played off the festival vibe while still keeping the focus on great auto loan rates.
We created a bold visual style with warm fall colors, playful beer-fest elements, and photography that felt like a day at the festival with friends. The messaging encouraged members to celebrate savings, hit the road with confidence, and keep more money in their pockets each month.
Welcome Kits
Element Credit Union
Element Federal Credit Union wanted new members to feel like they were joining something built for them. We created a set of welcome kits that matched three distinct audiences and gave each group a sense of belonging from the moment they opened the box.
Each kit was filled with thoughtful, branded items
Element Welcome to Craft Banking tapped into the idea that everyone has an element that makes them unique.
Next Generation Kit supported young adults taking their next steps. Bold graphics, useful tech gear, and a call to “Be the Change”.
#BankingForDogPeople Kit leaned into Element’s playful brand personality, celebrating members who treat their pets like family.
#BankingForCatPeople Kit delivered a fun surprise right out of the box with clever copy and playful design that felt made for proud cat parents.
Youth Branch Map Brochure
First Financial Federal Credit Union
First Financial Federal Credit Union wanted a way to connect with high school and college students and highlight the convenience and accessibility of their branch network. We designed an engaging brochure that not only speaks to young members in a friendly, welcoming tone but also uses visuals that make finding a branch easy and fun.
The centerpiece of the brochure is a custom illustrated map inspired by the look and feel of an amusement park guide. Bright colors, playful icons, and bold markers draw attention to branch and ATM locations, including specialized in-school branches and supported colleges. This style makes practical information approachable while reinforcing First Financial’s brand personality: friendly, local, and committed to students’ financial success.
By blending vibrant design with clear, concise messaging, the brochure creates an instant connection with its audience. It communicates that First Financial isn’t just a credit union. It’s a supportive partner ready to meet students where they are, on campus and beyond.
Brand T-Shirt
Explorers Credit Union
This shirt was created for Explorers Credit Union as part of a broader effort to bring the brand into everyday moments. The design focuses on the spirit of exploration that defines the credit union, using bold illustration, warm color, and a simple message that encourages people to get out into the world with confidence.
The artwork combines a stylized mountain range, evergreen silhouettes, and a retro sun pattern to capture a sense of adventure. The badge-style logo sits at the center of the composition and reinforces the identity without overpowering the imagery.
The result is a piece that feels wearable, friendly, and true to the Explorers story. It gives staff and members a way to share the brand in a way that feels natural and connected to the outdoors.
R-G Makes Banking More Human
R-G Federal Credit Union
A year-long brand campaign built around the idea that banking should feel real and human. By pairing playful retro robots with bold messaging, this work highlights genuine service, community connection, and approachable financial solutions across key products like checking, auto loans, home equity, and credit cards. The campaign brought the “Bank with Humans” promise to life with strong visual storytelling.
First Financial Branding
First Financial Federal Credit Union
Together, we defined a brand that reflects who they are at their core. Friendly. Local. Supportive. A credit union that shows up for its members in the moments that matter most.
We developed their visual identity, messaging, and tone in a way that feels fresh while still being grounded in the familiar trust First Financial members expect. Every piece of communication plays a part in that story.
Who we are
Kelley Parks, Creative {Catalyst}
Kelley believes creativity should make people feel something. As the founder of gira{ph}, she leads a small but mighty team that helps credit unions stand taller through thoughtful design, meaningful storytelling, and ideas that spark connection. She has spent her career championing the credit union movement, working with organizations to turn complex messaging into work that feels human.
Kelley is at her best when she is building things that matter and cheering on the underdogs who make real change happen in their communities. She brings heart, curiosity, and a deep respect for collaboration to every partnership.
When she is not dreaming up a new idea, she is spending time with her family and planning the next great adventure. She is proud of the team she has built and the relationships that fuel their work, and she is always looking forward to what comes next.
Hobbies/Interests:
Creative projects that become gifts and stories, Planning memorable adventures, Time with family and cheering on the people she loves
Favorite Programs:
Lisa Moore, Story {Teller}
Lisa brings energy and a natural talent for connecting with people to everything she does. She sees the story behind every idea and works to make sure the people behind those ideas feel supported along the way.
With a background that spans marketing, leadership, and community involvement, Lisa has a unique way of making others feel seen and valued. She leads by listening, celebrates small wins, and never misses a chance to lift people up.
Outside of work, Lisa loves music, good stories, and the people who feel like home. She is the kind of person who remembers what matters and helps others do the same. Her joy is contagious to everyone lucky enough to work with her.
Hobbies/Interests:
Video Games, Golf, Travel, Scratch-Made Brownies
Favorite Programs:
Zach Garster, Design {Maestro}
Though he has always had a passion for art and design, his studies were in music, and has worked in a number of unique and diverse fields and environments. Zach is a curator of interesting hobbies and experiences (including playing the accordion at an extremely amateur level), making him a valuable designer and creative mind. He truly believes everything happens for a reason, and that his experiences have prepared him to approach new situations from a unique perspective. Zach loves sharing those perspectives through his work at gira{ph} as VP / Creative Director. He is a lover of reggae music, sweaters, travel, and all the things that stain your teeth. When he’s not behind a screen creating beautiful things, he can be found at his piano, crocheting, playing video games, or hanging with his wife, son, and two goofy pups.
Hobbies/Interests:
Piano, Community Band (Tuba), Singing, Crafting, Working Out
Favorite Programs:
Brianna Kelly, Desktop {Composer}
Bria’s path into design started on stage. After performing on national television with The Voice and America’s Got Talent, she found herself creating the visuals that supported the music. Social media branding, banners, flyers. One project led to another, and she discovered a passion for design that was every bit as creative and expressive as performing.
That passion took her to Virginia Commonwealth University, where she earned her BFA in Graphic Design and sharpened her eye for strong, meaningful visuals. Today, Bria blends her background in fine art, graphic art, and music to create work that feels fresh, bold, and full of energy.
When she isn’t designing, you’ll probably find her cooking up something good, behind a drum kit, or spoiling her cats with way too many toys from Amazon. She brings enthusiasm and artistry to the team, along with a sense of fun that makes every project better.
Hobbies/Interests:
Cooking, cats, and video games
Favorite Programs:
Alex Robinson, Multimedia {Ninja}
Alex is a versatile designer who can bring a story to life in print, digital, motion, or video. He plays with style and format until a concept feels right and delivers work that looks sharp and makes sense for the audience.
He’s always exploring new ideas and learning new tools, bringing a curious mindset to every project. His clean, thoughtful design approach gives brands clarity and character.
When he isn’t creating, Alex is behind the camera capturing moments or diving into a new game. He’s usually accompanied by his dog, Ellie, who is always up for an adventure. His creativity, good humor, and willingness to push boundaries help shape the kind of work we’re proud to share.
Hobbies/Interests:
Guitar, Heavy Metal, Fishing, Gym
Favorite Programs:
M Heimburg, Production / Project {Manager}
M has been a lifelong creative. Their background in traditional art quickly branched out into a passion for design, digital and traditional illustration, photography, writing, and anything & everything creative.They received their Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from Longwood University, and started their career freelancing before joining the team as a full-time designer. There is no creative challenge M is unwilling to tackle, the wilder the project, the more excited they are to dig in. Between design projects, they can be found reading, playing D&D, and spending time with their two cats.
Hobbies/Interests:
Reading, D&D, Video Games, Cats
Favorite Programs:
James Pederson, Code {Monkey}
James is a web developer from Madison, WI with a particular emphasis on front-end development. He thrives on building solutions to help clients better serve their members and visitors. He creates addictive, usable, and accessible websites and web applications that not only function well, but also display beautifully on all devices.
When he’s not coding, he enjoys spending time with his girlfriend and her kids, and making things out of wood.
Hobbies/Interests:
Photography, Woodworking, Electronics
Favorite Programs:
Mark Clarkson, Artist {Animator} Author
Mark creates graphics and animations, both 2D and 3D, everything from South Park-style cut-outs to photorealistic 3D spaceships conquering the galaxy.
He edits videos, and performs all manner of Photoshoppery, including photo restoration and repair. He writes fiction and non-fiction, including seven books and countless articles.
When not pushing pixels and words around for clients, he likes to make music videos featuring his scratch-built R/C planes.
Hobbies/Interests:
Favorite Programs:
gira{ph} is proud to partner with TwoScore, working together to elevate brands within the credit union movement. By combining our creative expertise with TwoScore’s strategic marketing acumen, we deliver seamless solutions that help our mutual clients achieve their goals through strategy, design and execution.
From concepting to the finished product, our collaboration ensures every brand we touch leaves a lasting impression. We’re stronger together, and our clients reap the benefits.
Connect With Us
Have questions? Big ideas? We’re all ears.
Think of this as taking your first step to stick your neck out to create chemistry with your members. We’re here to help make it happen. Drop us a line to get the conversation rolling.
