Founded by The Art Directors Club, Designism Connects is a website developed in partnership with Idealist to support the creative needs of non-profits and connect them with creatives willing to give their time and talent to causes.

Since 2006, the ADC's "Designism" events have debated advertising and design as instruments for social and political change. The event, conceived by ADC vice-president Brian Collins in 2006, included panelists Kurt Andersen, Milton Glaser, Jessica Helfand, George Lois, and James Victore. Author Tony Hendra provided introductory remarks and Steven Heller served as the moderator.

The enthusiasm and drive was replicated at Designism 2.0 which followed the next year once again led by Brian Collins and moderated by Steven Heller, with a rousing debate over the work being done to further causes. Click here for podcasts from this event.