IIDA Joins Public Architecture's The 1%

September 12, 2013  by in Designer Weekly   

The goal of The 1% is to secure the commitment of designers of the to donate a minimum of one percent of billable hours each year to pro bono work on behalf of the non-profit community. As part of its own mission to elevate the design profession and advance design, IIDA encourages members to participate in The 1% program for the enrichment of their communities and around the world.

 "With great enthusiasm, IIDA embraces the intent of Public Architecture's program, The 1%," said Cheryl Durst, IIDA executive vice president and CEO. "For IIDA members, commitment to The 1% represents a chance to serve the public good and raise the profile of design while building opportunities for themselves. As a nonprofit representative, I consider it an incredible privilege to offer this genuine commitment to the nonprofit community, and I am elated at the positive impact that this initiative will allow design to have."

 Public Architecture founder and president John Peterson is likewise enthusiastic to receive support from IIDA.

"The mission of The 1% - to bring the well-designed built environment to those in need - is perfectly synchronous with the IIDA mission of advancing design in the world," he said. "We are excited at the chance to partner with IIDA and look forward to the excellence that its designers will bring to the non-profit community."

More than 1,200 firms representing 15,000 Designers have committed to Public Architecture's The 1%, providing nearly $45 million in pro bono services each year and supporting the organization's intent to make well-designed and healthy environments accessible to underserved communities. Public Architecture will assist IIDA in its commitment by facilitating introductions between firms and nonprofits seeking pro bono design services.