Rooted in Impact: Giving Back with Every Design Project with 1% For the Planet

Some news I’m really excited to share—Humm House is now a 1% for the Planet member!

This step has been a long time coming. Long before I became a designer, I studied conservation in college. I spent time working on organic farms, WWOOFing, and homesteading—learning firsthand how deeply connected we are to the land, and how much the health of the planet shapes everything we do. That experience completely shifted how I see the world, and it’s had a lasting impact on how I run my business.

When I launched Humm House, I knew I wanted it to be more than a design studio. I wanted it to be a space where creative work could also support meaningful change. Where aesthetics and impact could go hand-in-hand. Joining 1% for the Planet is one way I’m committing to that vision.

What does it mean? It means that 1% of every project—every logo, brand strategy, or design system I create—will be donated directly to vetted environmental nonprofits doing the real, boots-on-the-ground (or fins-in-the-water, or trees-in-the-soil) work of protecting our planet. From ocean conservation to climate justice, these organizations are leading the charge—and I’m proud to support them.

This might be a small gesture in the grand scheme of things, but to me, it feels really right. It aligns my values with my work. It brings things full circle—from my roots in environmental studies, to the creative business I’ve built today.

A Note for Clients: Choose Where Your 1% Goes 🌎

If you’re a current or future Humm House client, here’s something extra special: you can choose which 1% for the Planet nonprofit your project supports. Whether you care deeply about reforestation, sustainable food systems, ocean cleanup, or environmental justice, I’d love to direct your portion of the donation to a cause that resonates with you.

Here are a few of my personal favorites—each one doing amazing work in their own unique way:

• Surfrider Foundation USA – Protecting oceans, waves, and beaches through a powerful activist network.

• The Hunger Project – Empowering people to sustainably end hunger and poverty across the globe.

• National Young Farmers Coalition – Supporting a new generation of farmers and advocating for an equitable, climate-resilient food system.

• The 5 Gyres Institute – Leading the movement to eliminate plastic pollution through science, education, and advocacy.

• WWOOF USA – Connecting volunteers with organic farms to promote cultural and ecological exchange.

• The Ecology Center (San Juan Capistrano) – Creating vibrant, community-based solutions for healthy food and regenerative living.

• Pesticide Action Network – Working to replace hazardous pesticides with ecologically sound and socially just alternatives.

• National Park Foundation – Supporting and protecting America’s beloved national parks and inspiring stewardship.

• The Nature Conservancy – Conserving lands and waters around the world for people and nature.

If any of these speak to you—or if there’s another 1% for the Planet nonprofit close to your heart—just let me know. Together, we can make your project part of something even bigger.

Thanks for being part of this journey.

XO,

Nina