An epidemic of loneliness is sweeping the country. But we believe that through beautiful and thoughtful design, we can create a more connected community. Through the Creating Connections Design competition, eight talented teams were able to help us do it. We put out an open invitation for designers, artists, architects, and innovators to explore the profound impact of design on how people connect with others, the universe, and themselves in today's world. The competition aimed to heal, unite, and inspire sustainability, inclusivity, and human and spiritual connection, and builds from the Jewish imperatives to improve our global community and honor the interconnectedness of all people and the planet. The challenge was to create a public infrastructure piece that reimagines public spaces as catalysts for creating moments of connection, empathy, and shared experiences. The final creations were a testament to the idea that design can not only be pragmatic but also bridge divides, foster unity, and promote a deeper sense of connection with the world around us – and it should align with Better Block’s Wikiblock philosophy that anyone, anywhere can create beautiful and meaningful design. Thank you to our sponsors, Common Era, Humancraft, and the Thanks-Giving Square Foundation.