Visual Advocacy--> 501 (c)reative

This St. Louis-based design firm has a unique specialization: they only do work for nonprofit organizations. In 1994 Karen Handelman quit her job at large corporate firm in Chicago in search of a way to combine her interest in graphic design and volunteer work. After spending a year working for Habitat for Humanity, 501 (c)reative was hatched (the name is a reference to the 501c designation given to nonprofit organizations by the Internal Revenue Service).

Typically in the world of nonprofit organizations, they rely on pro bono work to advertise for themselves. " 'Many design firms do pro bono work as a way to connect to the community,' Handelman says. 'Unfortunately, as I learned from talking with people in the non-profit world, the fact that the work is free can short the organization in terms of client status.'" This also makes it easy to push them aside when a paying client demands work. Handelman's goal is to give nonprofit organizations the same attention through an assurance of quality and consistency in their materials.

Often times non-profits do not have a specific budget, but rather a wish list. They proceed from there based on what the organization can afford. They also have a different way of doing business, which means rarely charging by the hour. Instead they sit down and discuss what the needs are of the specific organization and what is good business for the firm.

Some of 501's current clients include Forest ReLeaf of Missouri, Humane Society of Missouri, Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Historical Society and St. Louis Public Radio. Handelman's next plan is to increase the firm's national exposure.

I think it is important for us as designers to realize that non-profit organizations and other causes need just as much attention as any other client we may come in contact with. They deserve just as much exposure as let's say...Anheuser Busch. Another aspect to the firm is the Handelman encourages her employees to do volunteer work themselves." 'She encourages her staffers to volunteer two hours a week during work time. Initial projects have included collaboration with the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity. 'It’s fulfilling for the staff, and it makes a difference in how they approach their work,' Handelman says. “Getting out to volunteer shows them the fuller picture of non-profits.'”

It shocking to me that as far as I know, this type of firm has not existed before. What is even more fantastic is that 501 has been so successful and is growing, looking to expand on a national level. This success shows both the demand and the desire for this type of work. Non-profits are obviously looking for a way to boost involvement and what better way than through their promotional and other materials? The people involved in these organizations are the "bread and butter" sort of speak, they are the ones that keep it going strong. With the designer's help, who knows how far they could go? All we need to do is CARE!!!