Bonnie Zhao

Visual Communication Design, 2018

The problem of homelessness is a multifaceted, systemic issue and temporary measures cannot solve chronic societal problems. This project isn’t an attempt to resolve such a complex issue; some people have dedicated their whole lives exploring this topic. However, this is a microscopic glimpse at one particular program here in Columbus, Ohio.

This project was inspired by the desire to improve the efficiency and motivation of the many people (both employees and guests) at the YMCA Homeless Program. It started off as a service design to help the experience of the guest and ended up as a discovery about the importance of the employee’s jobs. The goal was then modified to re-energize the attitudes and goals of the employees so that they saw themselves more as a family working towards a unified goal rather than a business. This energy would improve the quality of experience at the YMCA Homeless Program and any other human service organization so that everyone can “build healthy spirit, mind and body for all”.

Bonnie Zhao is a 2018 graduate of the Visual Communication Design program at Ohio State. Her interest for graphic design is fueled by her passion for storytelling and creation. She enjoys working in all aspects of design, but has a special interest in illustration, motion design, and branding. If she’s not immersed in her projects, you can typically find Bonnie at home with her cats, at home watching Netflix, or at home playing games on her phone.