The Linchpin Award
We are honored to have been selected as the winner of this year's Linchpin Award, awarded by the Community Design Collaborative (CDC). Our chair, Eli Storch, received the award on behalf of DAG on June 2, 2025 at Leverage, CDC's annual celebration of their excellent work. Half of the DAG Steering Committee attended, along with many DAG members, at a packed house at the Center for DesignPhiladelphia.
"The Linchpin Award honors the impactful work of individuals, firms, and organizations that
support the community design process. This accolade honors the unsung champions within our
ecosystem who surpass their roles to elevate community design. Often overlooked, these
individuals embody the backbone of the industry, tirelessly supporting design firms and client
organizations as advisors, collaborators, and advocates, ensuring that community and
neighborhood needs remain at the forefront."
About the Community Design Collaborative
The Community Design Collaborative (CDC) unites expert designers, architects, engineers, and city
planners who donate thousands of hours to help Philadelphia become a thriving urban landscape. The
CDC's mission stems from the belief that revitalized spaces, such as affordable housing for seniors or
safe, accessible parks, can transform neighborhoods. By leveraging the talents of volunteer design
professionals, the CDC has played a critical role in shaping Philadelphia's communities.
CDC Philadelphia Highlights Over 34 Years:
● Completed over 2,900 projects
● Provided $12.8 million in pro bono services
● Engaged 1,900 professionals who have donated over 117,000 volunteer hours
