People sitting at a wooden table, engaging in discussion or note-taking, with sunlight streaming through windows.

A hands-on, no task too small, no challenge too big agency of one

Built on nearly 20 years of working with and for social change organizations in a diverse range of capacities, OnPurpose combines the breadth of services of a small creative agency with the personalized attention that your mission deserves.

Patrick dunphy, owner / sole proprietor

Experienced strategist. Creative ally. Committed advocate.

Prior to launching this venture, Patrick served as partner and strategy director for The Medley Project, a social impact branding, marketing, and design agency he co-founded and led with the company’s creative director. In addition to overseeing internal business operations, client relations, and project management processes, Patrick facilitated a comprehensive rebrand for a federally-qualified community healthcare organization; served as lead copywriter tasked with crafting positioning and core messaging for clients; and led the planning and execution of integrated marketing and communications campaigns.

Before Medley, Patrick held a multitude of integral roles over more than a decade working for the Cristo Rey Network, a national not-for-profit education network, during a time of consistent growth and expansion. There he built a unique skill set and ability to adapt through his work in development, event planning, program implementation, stakeholder communications, operations, project management; and everything in-between.

As a result of this experience, Patrick brings an uncommon vantage point on the social change landscape; keen understanding of the necessity of impactful storytelling and the power of a purposeful brand; and unwavering commitment to partnering with those who seek to uplift and strengthen the communities they serve.

Here are a few guiding perspectives that have helped shape how OnPurpose works…

It’s a visual world, but you still need to craft your messaging with care. Words give shape to what’s possible, open minds to new meaning, and inspire action. When you’re intentional about what you say, your promise has more power.

WORDS MATTER

That’s right, it’s ok to think SMALL. As in details, details, details. You’re already all in on the big idea - that’s why you’re doing what you’re doing. But paying attention to the little things will always help make your brand stand apart.

THINK SMALL

It’s hard not to feel like you should always be doing MORE. But if you keep sight of why you started, who you serve, being the best at what you do, and making the biggest difference you can in your community, the impact you make will run deeper and last longer.

more ≠ better

Each and every interaction your team members have with current or prospective stakeholders is an opportunity to represent your mission with passion and purpose. So always be ready to share your story - you never know what is going to spark someone’s interest in your work.

you never know