Ware Malcomb Reaches Million-Dollar Milestone in Charitable Design Work

We here at i+s are firm believers in our motto, “Design with Purpose,” and believe that design has the power to positively impact people and the planet. International design firm Ware Malcomb has embodied this same spirit of purposeful design in action through its decades-long commitment to equity, collaboration and charitable design. Recently, the firm’s employee-driven philanthropic arm, WM Community, reached a significant milestone, contributing more than $1 million in fundraising to Orange County United Way since its inception in 1999—and we celebrate the achievement with them.

“As a company, one of Ware Malcomb’s core values is giving back to our community,” said Ken Wink, CEO of Ware Malcomb. “Our WM Community philanthropy program celebrates our culture of giving and encourages team members to be involved in charitable organizations. We are not only investing in philanthropic endeavors, but also providing sustainable design services across the Americas.”

Ending Homelessness Through Collective Action

One of Ware Malcomb’s most significant collaborations with Orange County United Way has been through its leadership and assistance with the United to End Homelessness initiative. This groundbreaking program seeks to end homelessness in Orange County in a humane and dignified way by providing long-term housing with supportive care to those who need it the most. Through its WelcomeHomeOC housing navigation and landlord incentive program, more than 1,000 individuals have gained access to housing, a testament to the power of collective action.

Designing Equity and Collaboration

This innovative space, designed for organizations to collaborate and drive equitable community change, features flexible planning to accommodate groups of 5 to 50 people comfortably.

Ware Malcomb’s support for the nonprofit extends beyond financial contributions. The firm recently provided in-kind architectural design services for the Varanasi Equity Workspace, a new meeting and event space resource at Orange County United Way’s corporate office. This innovative space provides opportunities for organizations to meet, advance their purpose and capacity, and work together to affect equitable change in the community. The newly designed space boasts convertible space planning, allowing groups ranging from five to 50 people to gather comfortably. Hybrid meeting technology caters to both in-person and virtual attendees, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility. Additionally, ADA-compliant upgrades throughout the space ensure that everyone can participate and contribute without barriers.

A Shared Vision

The Varanasi Equity Workspace is the result of collaboration and shared vision. Ware Malcomb’s design was complemented by the contributions of other sponsors and supporters, including ViewSonic for digital displays, Tangram Interiors for functional and flexible furniture, and Ingram Micro for its donation towards additional technology integration and upgrades. As the firm continues to shape the built environment with its innovative designs, its commitment to community and social responsibility remains unwavering. Through initiatives like WM Community and partnerships with organizations like Orange County United Way, Ware Malcomb is not only creating spaces that inspire, but also fostering a more equitable and compassionate society, one design and one dollar at a time.