DDX3X Foundation
The DDX3X Foundation was created to raise awareness of the newly discovered DDX3X gene mutation, which primarily affects young girls and their intellectual development. After launching in 2015, the Foundation teamed up with First Ascent to create a brand identity and an online platform that would unite families, provide valuable resources, and facilitate connection to the medical community—all with the goal of advancing treatments and discovering a cure.
Scope of Work
- Logo & Identity Design
- Website Design & Development
- Print Design
- Software Integration
- Merchandise Design
Building a Community Around Hope and Connection
Central to the DDX3X Foundation’s mission was creating a sense of community for those affected by this rare and little-known syndrome. They understood that progress depended on bringing together families, researchers, and medical professionals to collaborate on solutions. To amplify their mission, they needed an online presence that could serve as both a resource hub and a source of hope. We designed a comprehensive brand identity, logo, website, and print materials that addressed this sensitive topic with care, while highlighting the Foundation’s positive and supportive vision. While a large part of the Foundation’s mission is to collect data and build a patient registry, we didn’t want the brand to feel cold and clinical. Instead, we focused the design on the feeling of childlike hope and optimism to create a feeling of support among the DDX3X community.
From Insight to Implementation: Designing Tools for DDX3X Awareness
Throughout the process, we consulted with families, researchers, and medical professionals to ensure the platform met the needs of its community. This included developing a registry by implementing a purpose-built CRM system. We also created branding materials, including custom illustrations, swag designs, and social media and email assets, plus a toolkit for DDX3X Awareness Day with graphics and copy to support stakeholders in sharing the Foundation’s mission.
A Digital Platform That’s Driving Real-World Impact
Since launching the new website and registration system, the DDX3X Foundation has seen significant growth. Following rollout, 354 people registered through the site, contributing to the expansion of the community from the first known case to over 800 diagnosed individuals. The site has also driven impressive traffic and engagement.
The Foundation’s evolution has also led to new opportunities to refine their platform to meet the needs of a larger, more connected community. Through subsequent updates to the site’s design and content, we’ve helped ensure their mission is amplified and that their reach continues to expand.

61,676
Sessions
51,410
Total Users
49,868
New Users
59.59%
Engagement Rate
$25k+
sold through DDX3X Swag Shop
award-winning results
Building on this initial success, the DDX3X Foundation was able to present itself as a dynamic and influential nonprofit, securing a grant from the prestigious Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI). Research studies are now underway, and the team has expanded from a small group to a larger staff. The Foundation’s rebranding, including a new identity, design, and logo, also earned a Communicator Award, further solidifying their impact.
