Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, episode 12, 'Creating a Healthy Company Culture & Community'.
My guests in this episode are Thomas Villane, President and Ann Marie Baker, Vice President of Design 446.
Tom and Ann Marie have created a fabulous home for their staff and clients when they visit. Pre-pandemic during the winter months Tom would whip up homemade soup in their incredible office kitchen and staff and guests were invited to partake. I was lucky enough to be invited to the office and eat soup before the pandemic. The atmosphere there is so very welcoming.
At first Design 446 was a graphic design company, but today they do that and so much more. Their organization morphed to include: advertising and marketing, traditional and digital printing, interior design, office design, furniture design, window treatments, fabric, web design and development. They are a multi-faceted organization and also have a copywriting and social media department. All the print is produced at their location. Obviously, the overall theme of the organization is 100% related to art and design. Ann Marie shares her commitment to making sure that their clients vision and mission is expressed in a way that she feels truly tells your story. During the interview Tom gives some advice and shares that is is important to always treat your clients and customers the way you would want to be treated and like your partner. Be a part of their team and business will take care of itself.
Ann Marie and Tom have been at Design 446 for 25+ years. Ann Marie talks about a time when she was called "the girl" when her and Tom would go out on meetings. This is a must listen to part of the interview because times have definitely changed, but there is still more work to be done in male dominated industries.
During the height of the pandemic they created weekly virtual meetings where Tom kept the team connected through stories. The Design 446 team is a family and looks to each other for support and connection.
Tom and Ann Marie care deeply about the non-profit sector in their community. Their story speaks to the fact that you do not need to be a large organization to have an impact and help those who need for-profit services the most. From cash donations to professional services donated, Design 446 continues to set an amazing example. Ann Marie serves on many not-for-profit boards and also the Greater Toms River Not-for-Profit Committee. She consistently has been the voice of positivity, reason, and advice.
Take a listen to the answer both Tom and Ann Marie had to the, if I knew then what I know now question.
Today is the Day, Today is the Day Changemakers, and the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation is grateful for all the help and ongoing support the Design 446 team has provided! They are a true example of an organization who wants to see others succeed. They provide mentorship when needed, and finds creative ways to have their talents fit into your budget.
Please visit: https://design446.com for more information.
In the next episode of Today is the Day Changemakers, my guests include Luis Cardenas and Sarah Rosenberg, Co-Artistic Directors of Open Hydrant Theater Company.
Remember Today is the Day, You Cannot Go Back to Yesterday, and You Do Not Yet Own Tomorrow!
Have a great week!