Honoring Leadership Challenge Coin
Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department (AVFRD) is a membership organization served by over 200 volunteers, including operational and administrative members. Each year, AVFRD holds a banquet to honor volunteers for their heroic service. The objective of this project was to create a challenge coin to celebrate and award the leadership and sacrifice of outgoing board members.
Goal
The team's intention was to incorporate the AVFRD shield onto the front side of the coin. On the reverse side, I wanted to emphasize station's number '6', complemented by the word "leadership" to reflect the essence of the award being conferred.
In crafting the surrounding design elements, I selected terms such as "duty," "honor," "sacrifice," "teamwork," "integrity," "courage," and "respect." These terms were carefully selected to reflect the core values of the department's volunteers, giving the coin a symbolic representation of volunteers dedication and beliefs.
Once I finished sketching on paper, I moved into Adobe to create a black and white sample to be used in mock ups.
My goal was to keep the design simple, sophisticated, and prestigious. I used gold and silver instead of color for the material to elevate the perceived value of the award, while giving it a timeless and elegant feel. Gold and silver gives the impression of permanence and importance—something that can stand the test of time both in terms of physical durability and in terms of the value placed on the achievement it represents.
For leadership, a gold or silver award coin symbolizes the lasting value of their contributions. These metals represent the timeless impact of their dedication and the legacy they leave behind. It's a tribute that honors their achievements, offering a lasting memento of their irreplaceable role.
