On June 2nd, eight young graphic designers arrived in Hale County. They came from San Francisco, New York, Baltimore, Dallas and Dubai to live among its residents for one month. Inspired by the late architect Samuel Mockbee and the work he did with Auburn University’s Rural Studio, they came with a commitment to use their skills to positively affect the lives of Hale County’s neediest citizens.

"In the four weeks we lived there, we were welcomed into residents’ churches and hosted for suppers in their humble homes. We were delighted by their stories and awed by their generosity. Although we were previously aware of many of the hardships faced by the residents of this rural community, none of us could have predicted the impact of witnessing their lives first hand."

The fact that not all residents have clean water—because of its cost—struck them. In a county where many of the families live on a fixed income of $600 a month, access to clean water is simply unaffordable. Because of this, parents and children continue to use well water contaminated by bacteria from industry and sewage.

To help, on July 2, 2007, they launched a website (link below). It is promoted by a newsprint mailer which they designed and printed in Alabama.