Hey all,

I’m starting a GoFundMe in order to cover my moving costs to relocate to Baltimore, Maryland. As you all my know already, I am currently graduating from Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) with my Masters in Landscape Architecture this May. For those who do not know, Landscape Architecture is a field in which I, as a designer, am able to create spaces for ecological restoration, historical preservation, inspire and evoke feelings into people through designing landscape spaces such as parks, art installations, and etc. With my work, I hope to be able to critically analyze the needs of a community and advocate for those people whose voices have been continuously, historically marginalized as well as be able to create spaces that engage with the public to have fun and be curious about the world around them.

That being said, with the help of my connections through RISD and Landscape Architecture Foundation (LAF) Ignite program, I was able to secure a job following graduation. I am moving to Baltimore to start as an entry level landscape designer. The work at my future firm is truly amazing and I am more than excited to take a leap of faith to pursue my dream career.

One problem though, I am quite literally struggling financially to be able to relocate.

Being a full time student takes a lot of energy, effort and commitment which is why I have been unable to work this entire year so that I could focus on my studies. I’ve been fully invested in my education as well as my academic extracurriculars such as starting a nonprofit with a friend and colleague of mine called BRACKISH. Our organization visits local highschools to engage with the students in handson learning through landscape systems thinking workshops.

All of this morally conscious and good work while being financially burdened is really rough but I’m reaching out to my support group, yes, you! And asking for support in helping me spread my roots further into the east coast. If you are able to contribute anything, literally, ANY amount, I will be more than grateful for your support. Attached to this are some pictures of my pursuits and if you have any questions - I am more than happy to have a conversation. Thank you for the consideration!!!

Kindly,

Naomi Canino