Think back to when you were a kid or teen. Do you remember the moment something clicked — when a book, a class, or a conversation unlocked a whole new way of thinking? Maybe it was an intriguing internship or a summer experience that planted the seed of what would become a lifelong passion.

For some kids, that moment happens at summer camp.

Design Your World (DYW), IIDA’s summertime education pathway program, gives high school students from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to explore design as a powerful, creative, and viable career. Through hands-on learning, exposure to professional designers, and real-world projects, DYW helps students tap into their creative potential and develop the confidence to shape their futures.

This year, your support of the IIDA Foundation’s Annual Giving Campaign goes directly toward expanding the reach and impact of Design Your World. Every dollar makes a difference.

“IIDA members are known for their generosity of spirit — and this year, we are delighted to once again offer everyone the chance to be a part of the future of design by supporting the young design talents of our Design Your World program,” says IIDA Executive Vice President and CEO, Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA.

“Your donation directly supports these incredible students and actively builds a more diverse future for design. It’s the easiest way to help unlock the joy of design for future generations.”

Since its launch in 2021, DYW has welcomed more than 140 students — many of whom have gone on to study design in college and pursue careers in the field. DYW isn’t just about introducing kids to design; it’s about building a more equitable, inclusive, and dynamic future for our industry. It’s about ensuring the next generation of designers reflects the vibrant, multicultural world we live in — and brings fresh perspectives to the spaces we create.

Whether you give $5 (the cost of a cold brew) or more, your gift helps students discover their passions — and helps shape the future of design.

Support the 2025 IIDA Foundation Annual Giving Campaign