Three months ago the shockwaves of the earthquake in Haiti were felt across the globe.

Like so many others, I desperately wanted to jump on a plane and lend a helping hand. Truth is though, I would have been more of a hindrance than a help given that I have zero training or experience relevant to this kind of devastating situation. I am a graphic designer and former cooperant, although my work was not in the humanitarian sphere (no matter how much I wish it were!).

Ever since January 12, the global community has been rapidly joining forces to come to Haiti’s rescue. Initiatives by artistic and cultural groups—musical concerts, comedy nights, exhibits, etc.—have been popping up everywhere. As for us graphic designers, what can we do? Well, we can design—after all, isn’t that what we do best!?

The Society of Typographic Aficionados invited graphic designers from around the world to “come together” to create a new font. In the end, 400 graphic designers from 37 countries answered the call. The AID IV font contains 400 ampersands (the “&” glyph). Not too shabby!