design for social cause | coin minting | PBS interview
Montana 988 Challenge Coins
My GDSN class collaborated with veterans and counselors to learn about and design challenge coins to bring awareness to the Montana 988+1 project. The Montana 988+1 project is a 24/7 veteran support hotline for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. A challenge coin was chosen as a tactile reminder that there is support for those struggling. Challenge coins are given out within the military for a variety of reasons, and they are meant to be carried by the person they are gifted to at all times.
The Design
The goal of my design was to be straight to the point, easily legible, and Bozeman specific, as it was to be for the MSU Office of Veteran Services. The coin includes imagery of a sunrise over the Bridgers to represent that there is always new light at the end of the night. Six stars on the 988 side represent the the six service branches of the military. "You Matter" is clear and neutrally toned.
Takeaway
As someone who has very few connections with the military, it was a really cool experience to get to work with student veterans and learn about the significance of the project on a more personal level. Listening to their stories makes it all the more clear why the 988 project is so important as well as the significance of a challenge coin to the individual it was gifted to.
Watch the PBS Interview
