Connecting design professionals with community projects to make a lasting impact.
What if one conversation could help transform a community project?
On Friday, October 16, AIA Grand Rapids is proud to launch its inaugural Design Day of Service—a community-focused event that brings together volunteer design professionals and local residents, nonprofits, businesses, and community organizations for a day of free collaborative design consultations.
Whether you’re looking to share your expertise or seeking guidance for a project, Design Day of Service is an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and explore creative solutions that strengthen our community.
For Design Professionals
We’re seeking volunteer architects, interior designers, landscape architects, planners, engineers, construction professionals, educators, students, and allied design professionals to participate in one or more two-hour design sessions.
Working alongside fellow volunteers, you’ll help community members think through ideas, identify opportunities, and develop practical next steps for projects that make a difference in West Michigan.
👉 Apply to Volunteer as a Design Professional »
For Community Organizations, Nonprofits, Businesses & Residents
Do you have a project that could benefit from professional design input?
Whether you’re planning improvements to a nonprofit facility, reimagining a community space, exploring ideas for a small business, or just getting started with a vision, our volunteer design teams are here to help.
Bring your ideas, photos, sketches, or plans, and spend two hours collaborating with experienced design professionals to gain valuable insight and inspiration.
👉 Apply to Submit a Community Project »
Event Details:
Date: Friday, October 16
Time: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Location: Kendall College of Art and Design (KCAD)
Woodbridge N. Ferris Building, Boyer Hall
17 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Application Deadline: Friday, August 14, 2026
Space is limited for both volunteer design professionals and community projects. Applications will be reviewed and matched to create collaborative design teams for the event.
We hope you’ll join us in celebrating the power of design to strengthen neighborhoods, support local organizations, and inspire meaningful community connections—one conversation, one sketch, and one idea at a time.
Ready to get involved?
• Design Professional Application »
• Community Member & Organization Project Application »
Interested in sponsoring this event? Please contact [email protected] to learn more.