AWB-Oregon works to address issues of inadequate infrastructure, shelter and community facilities worldwide. We started our organization in January 2005, in response to the tsunami in Southeast Asia. As we became involved there, it quickly became apparent that there is a need for architects to take part in humanitarian efforts throughout the world. We are working with universities, Non-governmental organizations, and local people to affect positive change.

School Rennovation and Rehabilitation in Ethiopia

Press Release - June 11, 2007

In the rural area of Dongroro, Ethiopia about fourteen hours west of the Addis Ababa capital exists a school for ninth and tenth graders.  In need of renovation to accommodate two additional grades, eleven and twelve, the school is looking for volunteers to make education available to more students; some of whom walk as far as five miles each day to reach the school.  If redevelopment of the school is successful, a two year college program would be added in the future to supplement the campus. >>> learn more

Drafting help is currently needed for this project >>> volunteer now

AWB-Oregon Global Green Design Competition Entry

In July 2006, AWB-Oregon hosted several design charettes and prepared a submittal for the Global Green Design Competition Sponsored by Brad Pitt. AWB-Oregon's submittal included sustainability, green design, and hopes to act as a model for the rebuilding of healthy neighborhoods after the effects of Hurricane Katrina.

>>> Click here to view design board1

>>> Click here to view design board2

Hurricane Katrina Response

Follow along with our team as they performed damage assessments in the Biloxi / Gulfport (Mississippi) region & met with affected homeowners throughout the impact zone.

>>> Click here to read field reports

On-Site Assessments

Following the December 2004 tsunami, our volunteer team traveled to Sri Lanka to interview survivors and local and national leaders. They completed numerous assessment forms to study project feasibility and future participation.

School in Bata Atha, Sri Lanka

AWB-Oregon’s first built project took shape in Sri Lanka in the spring
of 2005. The team arrived in country with funding and access to high-level government officials that facilitated site selection for design and construction of a standard grade school. They leveraged local contributions of labor and cement for the reinforced concrete and masonry building. The team worked with a well-known Sri Lankan architect and village leaders to develop the design and start the construction process. AWB-Oregon is continuing to build ties with NGOs, Sri Lankan leaders and design professionals in order to connect volunteers to funded projects.

Oregon Universities

AWB-Oregon is collaborating with the University of Oregon and Portland State University architecture programs to encourage participation in humanitarian-based work through the academic design studio process and in the field.

Partnerships

AWB-Oregon is pursuing relationships with local and international non governmental organizations and related professional organizations.