Hasta La Ideas

In the perfect world, we would donate our extra money to charitable organizations. At least Go Welsh thinks so. Craig Welsh, principal of this small graphic design studio, based in Lancaster, PA, created Society of Design (SOD), a non-profit that is “dedicated to multidisciplinary design education and community service.” The broad strategy for SOD aims at “elevating the discourse about design” in Central Pennsylvania by organizing an annual speaker series, exhibitions, and design outings. SOD is not trying to cushion its bottom line. Its goal is to give as much money as possible to other non-profits.

Society of Design started in September 2009 and it receives a majority of its income through membership fees. Members are also eligible to compete in design competitions and exhibitions and they help to decide which non-profits get SOD’s donations. Guest speakers also have a say. Past speakers from Wieden + Kennedy and Design Army have already chosen where to donate money. Modern Dog will decide closer to their March 4th talk. Also, they will be giving away half of the net proceeds from upcoming SOD merchandise.

As its membership increases, so will SOD’s ability to give money to other non-profits. Its goal is to spend the same amount of money on events, trips and exhibitions as it gives away, which is likely to reach $20,000 in the first year. More than that, SOD asks that its members volunteer their time to a non-profit for at least ten hours each year.

(more…)