Des Moines-based human services nonprofit the Beacon, formerly known as the Beacon of Life, has updated its website, branding and name. The redesign was born out of experiencing “a phenomenal amount of growth and change,” Executive Director Melissa Vine said. “Refreshing our look and name reflects both the accomplishments of our team, as well as paving the way for exciting things to come.” In the last two years, the Beacon has more than doubled its fundraising and grant income, overhauled internal policies and programming, remodeled its residential home in the Sherman Hill neighborhood, added in-house mental health counseling, increased staff compensation by 43% and collaborated with Anawim Housing to create a new nonprofit. The new logo, which is a colorful, abstract design of stick figures overlapping arms to create a star, represents the need for connection and community in order for people to experience healing and growth, Vine said. “People who identify as women come to the Beacon with a history of complex trauma, typically including domestic violence, homelessness, substance use, and incarceration. The environment at the Beacon is one of unconditional positive regard and meaningful connection, which research indicates is the antidote to addiction and violence.” The website was redesigned by 818 – A Tiny Design Empire and features a series of stories, statistics and information that educate visitors about the effects of poverty and domestic violence on substance abuse, incarceration and homelessness. Vine said the changes are paving the way for “an exciting announcement that will be released yet this summer.”