Why Participate

“Design can and must become a way in which young people can participate in changing society.”
Victor Papanek, Design for the Real World

This idea has never been more true or more important. Encouraging passionate young people—including high school students who might not otherwise be exposed to the discipline of design—to apply their creative talents to social issues will ensure that they carry the ideals of community service, creative thinking and real-world solutions into their professional lives.

Design Ignites Change is looking for substantial projects that boldly address social issues in innovative ways.

The Ideal Design Ignites Change Project:

» Addresses a pressing social need within a community.
» Is actually implemented or could be implemented within that community.
» Makes a positive impact in the community with results that can be measured.

Projects that are larger and more conceptual in scope are welcomed, but they must be innovative and executable. Design Ignites Change seeks solutions that challenge preconceptions. We hope that exposure on the Design Ignites Change website will help worthy projects find additional support to help them get produced.

Benefits for Participating Educators & Professionals:

» Educators can give students a practical framework for creating work that addresses social issues.

» Design Ignites Change provides schools and educators with a flexible program that can be used for cross-departmental projects, alumni outreach, curriculum building, engagement with local high schools, engagement with the community, showcasing students to potential employers and more.

» As a creative professional you can actively engage with your community by mentoring underserved high school students.

» The program provides visibility for all participants on the website and through the public relations campaign.

» Design Ignites Change honors and rewards positive social thinking with an awards program that includes financial grants.