Van Go, Inc.

The Beginning

Shortly after graduating from college, I was looking for a way to get involved with local, art-based nonprofits in Lawrence. I wanted more than a job — I wanted purpose. I wanted to use design to create real impact in my community.

That’s when I met Lynne Green, Executive Director and founder of Van Go. She gave me a chance.

At the time, Van Go was small. Scrappy. Deeply rooted in community. Founded in 1997 in a checker limousine as a mobile nonprofit, the organization was built on a bold vision: to spark self-expression and hope, and a mission to inspire young lives through art, work, and community.

Operating out of a garage with big dreams and even bigger heart, Van Go focused on creating real opportunities for youth to earn, learn, and grow. That single opportunity became the foundation of a creative partnership that has lasted more than two decades.

The Journey

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching Van Go grow from that humble garage into a thriving, purpose-driven organization with a dedicated facility and a national reputation for empowering young people through art, mentorship, and workforce development.

But what has never changed is the mission: to help young people see their own potential through creativity.

Throughout this journey, my role evolved alongside the organization. What started as design support grew into a long-term collaboration rooted in trust, shared values, and community.

The Work

My work with Van Go has spanned many programs and events, including:

• Event branding and collateral for signature experiences like:
  • Float Your Boat
  • Dinner on the Curve
  • May Day Hey Day
• Marketing and communications for programs such as:
  • JAMS (Just Arts Mentorship & Support)
  • The Arts Train
• Photography and visual storytelling to document youth, events, and community impact
• Murals and community art initiatives
• Digital and print design to support fundraising and outreach
• Volunteer support and creative collaboration
• Teaching a graphic and digital design class to Van Go youth participants

Each project was an opportunity not just to design, but to connect — with staff, students, families, and the broader community.

Why It Matters

For me, Van Go has never been “just a client.”

It’s a place where creativity is a tool for healing, growth, and confidence. It’s where young people discover their voice. It’s where art becomes opportunity.

And it’s where I’ve seen, time and time again, how thoughtful design can elevate a mission and bring people together.

The work we’ve done together has helped:

• Increase awareness and participation in programs
• Strengthen fundraising and donor engagement
• Build emotional connection through storytelling and visual identity
• Support youth as they develop real-world creative skills
• Create memorable community experiences

Why This Partnership Works

Trust Built Over Time

After 20+ years, collaboration is seamless. There is shared language, understanding, and mutual respect.

Community-First Design

Every project starts with the people Van Go serves — not trends or aesthetics.

Flexibility and Growth

As Van Go has evolved, so has the creative work. From grassroots to large-scale events, the design strategy has adapted while staying rooted in mission.

A Personal Reflection

Van Go is home to me — and to so many others.

It’s where I’ve grown as a designer, a mentor, and a member of this community. It’s where I’ve seen firsthand the power of art to change lives.

I’m deeply grateful to Lynne Green for taking a chance on a young designer all those years ago. That moment shaped not only my career, but my purpose.

Today, I continue to support Van Go because I believe in what they do — and in the young people who walk through their doors every day.