DSA Newsletter - July 2014

NOTES FROM NATASHA

The temperatures continue to rise as we enter the summer season. As everyone gears up for summer vacation, you might see a decline in the amount of business you're doing. Take advantage of any slow days of summer to get reorganized and primed for the busier months.

Now would be a great time to update your member website and share photos and details of some of your recent accomplishments. Remember, it's your page so make it reflect the beautiful you that will attract clients when they go in search of a designer.

The more experience your website shows, the more likely potential clients are to see something that speaks to them, giving them a reason to choose you for their next project. As always, we're here to provide any technical support you need or just a word of encouragement as you move your career forward.

From all of us at DSA, have a fabulous summer!

Visit Tracy's free member website for inspiration:
https://www.dsasociety.org/free-website  

Questions concerning your personal website email me at:    support@dsasociety.org

Natasha Lima Younts DSA

Paying It Forward

If you're looking for an opportunity to pay it forward by doing something special for someone in need "just because," what better organization for an interior designer's volunteer hours than Habitat for Humanity? By volunteering with Habitat, not only will you be part of the excitement of creating a home for a family that never dreamed they'd be able to afford a home, you'll also be able to share your expertise to make that space super special just for them.

Habitat builds and repair houses all over the world using volunteer labor and donations. Partner families purchase these houses through no-profit mortgage loans or innovative financing methods. Homeowners invest hundreds of hours of their own labor into building their Habitat house and the houses of others. The houses are sold to partner families at no profit and financed with affordable loans, and the homeowners' monthly mortgage payments are used to build still more Habitat houses.

Habitat for Humanity houses are simple, decent and affordable to low-income families around the world. Whenever possible, they build sustainable, energy-efficient and healthy housing. Habitat for Humanity has local and state affiliates located across the country with building events planned throughout the year. A specific program for interior designs to get involved in is Habitat's ReStore Spaces project, which connects local interior design groups with a local realtor and a family in need.

Another way in which you might be able to contribute is with the donation of materials, furniture or appliances. Keep this in mind when working with a client who is getting rid of some of these items. Many local Habitat for Humanity affiliates operate ReStores, which sell reusable and surplus building materials, furniture and appliances to the public. The proceeds fund local Habitat house construction.

Designers can be especially helpful in non-profit ventures, providing a professional service that most projects such as Habitat just can't afford. And remember, networking with other professionals who are volunteering just might land you a paying project down the road! To locate the Habitat for Humanity local affiliate near you, search online at http://www.habitat.org/local.

Save the Date!

Raising the Bar