Divine Design: How a Gate Fold Triptych Became a Powerful Fundraising Tool

Brochures often do the heavy lifting in direct mail. Think of them as the visual backup singers to your letter’s solo—there to emphasize the message, add depth, and make it all more memorable. But every once in a while, a brochure doesn’t just support the message—it becomes the message.

That’s exactly what happened in a recent campaign by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), a Catholic nonprofit that provides humanitarian and pastoral support around the world. Instead of sticking to a traditional tri-fold or bi-fold brochure like many nonprofits do, ACN went bold—opting for a gate fold with a curved die cut, transforming the mail piece into something truly special: a triptych.

What’s a triptych, and why does it matter?

A triptych is a three-paneled piece of art, often with religious roots. Historically, these were used in churches or as personal devotional items. For many Catholics, the format instantly signals something sacred, intimate, and worth paying attention to. It’s more than just a brochure—it’s a spiritual symbol.

In ACN’s version, the outside panels show distressing scenes of attacks on church communities, illustrating the urgency and severity of the mission. But when opened, those same panels reveal uplifting photos of faith, hope, and resilience. It’s a powerful transformation—pain turned into perseverance—mirroring the very mission of the organization.

The center panel is where the heart of the message lies.

Here, ACN shares the story, the need, and the ask. The copy and imagery reinforce the emotional journey the reader has just taken—one that starts in hardship and opens into hope. It’s not just visually stunning; it’s strategically smart.

Why this mailer made our Inspo Collection:

This piece earns its spot in our Inspo Collection because it shows how thoughtful design can go beyond aesthetics—it can elevate meaning. ACN understood their audience, leaned into religious symbolism, and created a tactile experience that was likely to resonate emotionally and spiritually.

And the best part? This approach isn’t limited to nonprofits or religious groups. Any marketer can take a page from this playbook. Sometimes, a small tweak in format—a unique fold, a strategic die cut—can forge a stronger connection, tell a richer story, and yes, even boost response rates.

So next time you’re planning a direct mail campaign, ask yourself: What story could your brochure tell if it were allowed to unfold?