When I became a part of the DFA family, I learned the value of patience and empathy, and how these two qualities can address pressing challenges in our local community and beyond. Amongst many things, one of the most fulfilling aspects of Texas Design for America has been its collaborative environment. I have been fortunate to work with some awesome teammates to produce enriching experiences with the users’ needs in focus. Design for America has been an enlightening opportunity giving me hands-on experience with design and enabling me to meet those most affected by particular societal challenges. DFA is important to me because it demonstrates that change can be done at a grassroots level to impact an individual or group of people.