Community-Driven Branding: Transforming Local Narratives Through Design

From launching the SmileQuest Foundation’s identity as a startup—designed to reflect the founder’s inspiring vision—to crafting meaningful narratives for community initiatives like the Cedar Springs Entertainment District and Urban Dash 5K Run, my work goes beyond visual aesthetics to create connections that resonate deeply with people and place.

For SmileQuest Foundation, I developed a brand identity that embodied the organization’s purpose and mission, translating its founder’s vision into a cohesive, professional, and impactful visual representation.

The Cedar Springs Entertainment District branding was another example of how strategic design can reflect a community’s spirit. The identity serves as more than just a logo—it’s a timeless yet contemporary visual system that adapts seamlessly across platforms, representing the district’s vibrant energy, inclusive character, and future potential.

Similarly, the Urban Dash 5K Run branding for Friends of Fairpark required a unique approach to capture the event’s purpose and inspire community engagement. By designing a complete suite of branding materials—including the logo, website, and print collateral—I transformed a local fundraising run into a compelling story that communicated its mission and encouraged widespread participation.

Through all of these projects, my approach to branding has been guided by the belief that great design is about more than aesthetics; it’s about capturing the essence of a vision and bringing it to life in a way that inspires connection, community, and action.