In an ideal world, funding for social service agencies would be unlimited, providing the necessary means to offer not only services and programs, but also an enriching and healing environment. The constrained budgets of many nonprofits often preclude a comfortable and supportive interior workspace, and resources are not readily available for renovations or improvements where the most poor and vulnerable are served. At Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights, there is an entire program dedicated to creating more therapeutic and aesthetically appealing interior spaces to directly address this issue. Founded in 2000 by Chicago interior designer Susan Fredman, ASID, Designs for Dignity (DFD) of Heartland Alliance provides pro bono design services to Heartland program sites as well as other area nonprofits in order to create interiors that reflect dignity, hope, and comfort. DFD operates from the belief that there is a distinct connection between the emotional, physical and spiritual health of an individual and their immediate surroundings.

A design conscious environment creates inspiration, access to personal resources, and improved decision-making capabilities. In support of that philosophy, DFD works with an ever-expanding network of designers, manufactures, and suppliers to match materials and expertise to specific needs of project sites looking to restore dignity and hope to its surroundings. This innovative group works with its industry partners to recycle damaged or slightly used furniture, excess paint and tile, and various other design materials to not only benefit nonprofit program sites but to keep the industry better manage disposable materials as well.

DFD has already improved the interior spaces of childcare centers, domestic abuse shelters, centers for runaway and abandoned teens, food pantries and other organizations that assist individuals in rebuilding their lives. In these organizations, the environment where services are delivered does matter, and to be able to welcome clients in a safe and comfortable space sets the tone for treatment. It reassures those who are most vulnerable that they will receive the care they need, allowing them to heal and gain the strength to put their lives back together. In addition to the impact on client services, DFD affects the staff of these nonprofits as well. New décor boosts the morale of those who work in the space, creating a cheerful and professional environment. By working with talented design industry professionals, DFD allows nonprofits to work to improve the lives of the people they serve in an environment that supports that effort. Please help SusanFredmanAtHome support Designs for Dignity. Every dollar you donate, we will match.

Our current non-profit partners include:

• Counseling Center of Lakeview
• Children’s Advocacy Center
• The Erie Health Clinic
• LaCasa (Lake County Counsel Against Sexual Assault)
• Los Vecinos
• Night Ministry
• The Sutherland Community Center
• Teen Living Program
• Wings

Please volunteer your expertise, donate materials, or make a financial contribution.
Jennifer Sobecki, Executive Director
Phone: 773-293-3259
Email: jsobecki@designsfordignity.org
Website: www.designsfordignity.org