Architecture for Humanity (AFH)
50x15 Partner Description: Non-Government Organization (NGO)
Digital Inclusion Ecosystem Classification:
AFH and AMD
AMD, through its 50x15 Initiative, is sponsoring AFH’s inaugural Open Architecture Challenge (OAC), an open international design competition that reaches beyond the traditional bounds of architecture by challenging industry professionals and others to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to improve living conditions around the world. Every two years, the OAC will tackle various systemic issues faced by half the world’s population that is living on less than $2 a day. The initial challenge, an extension of the 50x15 Learning Labs Program, will focus on the design and construction of technology centers that will help a community realize educational, social and business opportunities via the Internet. Winners of the challenge will receive up to $250,000 for the implementation of their design.
AMD and AFH are currently accepting nominations for a community partner for the 2007 AMD OAC. Through the Request for Proposals (RFP) process, local NGOs, community groups and small business enterprises have the opportunity to nominate themselves to become the recipients of the winning architectural design that will made into a sustainable digital inclusion center. The RFP is online and can be found at the link on the right.
AFH Mission
Architecture for Humanity is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization founded in 1999 to promote architectural and design solutions to global, social and humanitarian crises.
Through competitions, workshops, educational forums, partnerships with aid organizations and other activities, AFH creates opportunities for architects and designers from around the world to help communities in need. The organization is currently providing design services and funding for reconstruction in India and Sri Lanka following the devastating tsunami that struck South-East Asia in December 2004 as well as on the Gulf Coast of the United States after Hurricane Katrina.
In addition to implementing design initiatives and competitions, AFH supports humanitarian-directed design through advocacy. To that end, they have consulted with government bodies and relief organizations on a number of projects, including mine clearance programs and playground building in the Balkans; earthquake resistant construction techniques in Turkey and Iran; school building in Calcutta; refugee housing on the borders of Afghanistan and responding to Hurricane Ivan, Emily and Katrina. The AFH has also provided referrals and advice to a number of organizations, including Oprah's Angel Network, African Regional Youth Initiative, Kansas City Economic Development Corporation, Kids with Cameras, Habitat for Humanity, Common Ground, UN Habitat, and others.
Finally, through exhibitions, media attention, conferences and forums, the AFH fosters public appreciation for the many ways that architecture and design can improve lives.
Contact Information
AFH Offices
900 Bridgeway, Suite 2
Sausalito, CA 94965-2100, USA
T. +1.415.332.6273
F. +1 415.332.6283
staff@architectureforhumanity.org