Community involvement is an integral part of our operations at IS-DG. Here are some events we’ve participated in recently. Working with communities is one of our 5 core values.
Better Philadelphia Challenge Event This event was a reason to celebrate the Ed Bacon Memorial Committee and Center / Architecture + Design for the successful Better Philadelphia Challenge event and the winner of the Ed Bacon Award. Jennifer Keesmaat of Toronto, Canada provided a striking look at the power that can be gained by younger people getting involved in the shaping of policy and urban spaces. In addition, the students from Leeds UK, Arlington, Texas and Illinois were an inspiration to see that emerging designers have exceptional energy to devote to a nearly impossible public health challenge. Special thanks should be delivered David Bender, Alex Feldman, and Nate Hommel for their commitment to delivering this program.
National Convention for NOMA Ian had the opportunity to get out of the office and travel to Chicago for the National convention for NOMA (National Organization of Minority Architects). The theme for this year was “Unbounded: Conference Without Borders” where the seminars were hosted by local firms and universities instead of keeping everyone inside the hotel everyday. Former IS-DG staff architect, Kwesi Daniels, is now the Editor for NOMA’s self-titled quarterly magazine in addition to being the Head of the Architecture Department at Tuskegee University.
Compete 360 Ian had the opportunity to be a guest judge for this annual student competition for Design Thinking. With students ranging from elementary school through high school, each team worked to their ability to create some unique solutions for their specific project. Projects ranged from school store efficiency, assisting classmates having difficulty with the curriculum, student hunger, and supporting homeless youth in school and shelter. Design Thinking works by having students see a problem or situation in their environment and teach them the critical skills needed to develop a solution. Read more about them at: Compete 360
Community Design Collaborative Ian is proud to be a member of the Sacred Places Civic Spaces Ad Hoc Committee. This organization is revitalizing urban neighborhoods through innovative design and reclaiming otherwise underused sacred places into housing, offices, schools, and child care. As part of the Design Grant Review team, Ian is lending his expertise to assist in practical solutions for these amazing spaces. Just announced, the Sacred Spaces & Capstone Exhibition tickets are now available. Tickets are $10 for members/$20 for non-members, and will cover the cost of light refreshments and beverages. For more details and ticket purchase, go to: SACRED PLACES CIVIC SPACES
IS-DG will also be participating in LEVERAGE, A Celebration of Design and Community. This inspiring exhibition will showcase the work of the Community Design Collaborative throughout the city. IS-DG was on the team for the Allegheny West Foundation to create a concept design for the North 22nd Street Commercial Corridor. This year’s Leverage Award honoree is Connor Barwin. He is the founder of Make the World Better Foundation and a former Philadelphia Eagle (2013-2016). Barwin just completed his 10th year playing in the NFL. Purchase your tickets at the link above and join us on April 2, 2019 at 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, University of the Arts, Hamilton Hall (320 South Broad Street).