IDS Honors Keith Baltimore at Hearts Awards

When the pandemic hit, the Accessories Resource Team (ART) knew that their annual ARTS Awards would not be attainable. Creative minds got together and created the "Hearts Awards," to honor thirteen companies or individuals that have shown outstanding leadership, empathy and service during the COVID-19 pandemic by going above and beyond in service to their industry or community. The event also included a fundraiser for No Kid Hungry, where over 70 Rosenthal plates were designed by notable and artistic industry people, and auctioned off. 

While the awards banquet had to be rescheduled once, on June 25th thirteen leading industry organizations came together to celebrate their selected honorees. When IDS came together to discuss who should receive the Hearts Award for IDS, many names and companies came to mind. Fortunately, there were many who stepped up during this pandemic. However, one individual rose to the top of that list: Keith Baltimore of Baltimore Design Group. 

Keith Baltimore (middle) pictured with Masters of Ceremony Carson Kressley (left) and Thom Filicia (right)

Keith responded to the COVID-19 crisis by co-founding Designer Givers, a designer-driven charity that provides interior design consultations in exchange for donations that support humanitarian aid. In a time of uncertainty and worry, Keith went above and beyond using his talents as an interior designer and a business owner to really impact his community by taking action almost immediately at the beginning of the pandemic. Design Givers helped people become more comfortable in their homes while isolating, while at the same time raising money for charity. 

We are grateful for Keith's hard work, dedication, and giving spirit. Overall, Design Givers was able to raise over $27,000 for deserving charities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

From left to right: Maddie Landers (IDS Marketing & Communications Manager), Keith Baltimore (Baltimore Design Group), Jenny Cano (IDS Executive Director)