Flying Crow Creative and SMASH are united by a shared vision: leveraging purpose to drive meaningful change. Whether it’s helping nonprofits amplify their voices or ensuring local artists have access to critical healthcare, both organizations are focused on strengthening the communities they serve. This collaboration shines during SMASH’s Giving Tuesday campaign, with Flying Crow stepping up as a match sponsor and doubling donations to $2,500 from December 2nd through midnight December 3rd.
Flying Crow’s founder, Laura Figueroa Ware, exemplifies this dedication to purpose. With over 30 years of experience in branding and marketing, Laura is passionate about working with organizations that prioritize making a difference. Her journey from managing a boutique PR firm to launching her own agency was driven by a desire to help others. We caught up with Laura recently to discuss music, how she got involved with SMASH, creativity, and more.
A Chance Encounter Turned Partnership
Laura’s connection to SMASH began unexpectedly on a 2019 flight to Austin. She found herself seated next to Ian Moore, SMASH’s founder, and the two spent hours discussing the organization, social justice, and equity. Their conversation sparked a connection, and after a few follow-up meetings in Seattle, Ian invited her to join the board.
What drew Laura to SMASH was its grassroots foundation—at the time, 90% of the organization was volunteer-driven—and its unwavering focus on providing essential services. “Too many people don’t get the help they need when they need it,” Laura reflects. “SMASH does more than offer healthcare—it builds trust within the artistic community, ensuring those who need support know we’re here to help.”
A Purpose-Driven Collaboration
Laura has brought her marketing expertise to SMASH, helping the organization communicate its mission and expand its reach. At Flying Crow, she and her team work exclusively with purpose-driven clients, elevating their efforts through innovative marketing, branding, and design. Their impact is felt in projects ranging from website overhauls to complex campaigns for organizations like SEIU 775 and the Washington State Budget & Policy Center.
For SMASH, the partnership has proven invaluable. Laura sees healthcare access as vital for supporting artists’ work and productivity, likening it to any profession where mental and physical well-being are essential. SMASH offers not just preventive care, dental services, and mental health support but also guidance to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. “It’s about removing barriers so people can focus on their work without unnecessary stress,” she explains.
Looking Ahead
Both Flying Crow and SMASH are driven by a desire to grow their impact. Laura envisions a future where SMASH-like organizations are connected in a national network, sharing resources and advocating for better support systems. Meanwhile, SMASH is exploring expanding its services, including potentially establishing a dedicated health clinic.
As Flying Crow approaches its 10th anniversary, Laura reflects on the journey. For her, it’s about more than just business—the relationships and the impact her team has made with their clients. “We’ve built something special, and that motivates me,” she says. “At Flying Crow, we’re committed to solving problems and helping organizations thrive.”
The Power Of Collaboration
Laura’s work with Flying Crow and SMASH highlights the power of partnerships rooted in shared values. Whether supporting nonprofits through marketing expertise or helping ensure access to healthcare, her commitment to purpose remains central to everything she does. With her team’s support, SMASH is well-positioned to continue growing and creating a positive impact in the years ahead.
This Giving Tuesday, Flying Crow is making supporting SMASH by matching donations easier than ever. Every contribution doubles its impact—helping SMASH continue its vital work. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier community. Donate now and be part of the change.
GIVING TUESDAY MATCH CHALLENGE
As part of our “A Little Help from Our Friends” Giving Tuesday campaign, Flying Crow Creative has generously pledged to match all donations up to $2,500 on December 2nd & 3rd until midnight.
That means your gift will go twice as far in providing essential healthcare services to Seattle’s musicians! When you make a tax-deductible gift to SMASH, you directly impact our capacity to serve current members, expand programs and services, and support even more musicians in our area.