Architects Without Borders Seattle volunteers collaborate with underserved communities to deliver ecologically sensitive, culturally appropriate, life-changing design.

What We Do

AWBS volunteers believe that thoughtfully designed infrastructure can lead to stronger, healthier communities. The projects at AWBS include outcomes for underserved communities here in Seattle and around the world.

ABOUT THIS PROJECT

International Christian Fellowship’s Mission of Hope School will provide learning space for a community on a 500 acre campus. The AWBS team worked to develop a master plan and schematic design. Liberia experienced two civil wars back to back, with peace coming to the nation in 2003, though political uncertainties and post-war impacts are still felt. The Mission of Hope School planning required consideration of existing structures which need to be revised or replaced, as well as a plan for the large campus. The AWBS team delivered schematic design for the main school facilities as well as a master plan which can be worked on in phases. 

THE THRILL OF FINISHING A PROJECT

August 15, 2021

In 2019, we were accepted as a participant with a great nonprofit, Architect with Borders (AWBS) to develop schematic designs for our school in Bong County, Liberia. It was a thrill to work with AWBS.  This project team consisted of 3 architects:Elizabeth Correa, Project Lead, Choua Vang, and Clenel Williams. The ICF Mission of Hope Committee were: Bishop William BGK Harris,  Rev. Maryalice Omokeye Moses, AlexGontee, Rev. Theophilus Massaquoi, and more.

The pre-phase and information gathering was at first complex; but later ended up being the best experience for our committee. As I look back over these past two years, all of the research and inquiries on our needs from space, rooms, community, people, students, functions, climate and even the “homework assignments” turned out to be very effective phase.  It prepared us to be ready to meet and interact with the architects as they guided us in expression of ideas using images, pictures, other school models. We learned to use our listening and observation skills as we met and gave feedback upon design direction.  We were quite engaged for a group who did virtual conference call for this phase. The AWBS Project Team was patient and so easy to work with. We want to extend our gratitude for these three incredible persons that gave their time and talents to help us move closer to our dream of a new school in the rural area of Central Liberia.  AWBS service will certainly help Liberia be a better place for education of students and the community.

The future rewards from their pro-bono services will be greater than we can imagine. Again, thank you AWBS for your amazing dedication and inspiration for us all!