Denise Wood

AIGA, the professional association for design

Grant Awarded: $15,000

The American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), the professional association for design, stimulates thinking about design, demonstrates the value of design, and empowers designers at each stage of their careers. AIGA’s mission is to advance design as a professional craft, strategic tool and vital cultural force. Founded in 1914, AIGA remains the oldest and largest professional membership organization for design.

Design for Good is an initiative launched by the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) to connect and amplify the pro bono efforts of the nation’s 22,000 designers, hundreds of design educators, 200 student groups and 66 local AIGA chapters, and, in turn, to accelerate design-driven social change. By gathering and sharing case studies of success stories, Design for Good is showing others how they can replicate effective programs in their communities. Key to this effort is developing videos, case studies, advice on leading pro bono project best practices, and identifying ways to connect resources and social engagement networks. AIGA also is working to build a national database of socially focused projects and to encourage thoughtful participation from peer organizations and non-profits. Design for Good seeks to move creative professionals from the margins of their communities toward the center and demonstrate the value of design in solving important social problems.