In 2016, Facing Homelessness founder Rex Holbein came to our office to tell us about The BLOCK Project, a unique program that would place 125 sf, net-zero homes in residential backyards, providing housing and neighborhood support to people who had experienced homelessness.

We immediately knew we wanted to be involved, and during Rex’s presentation, we asked to provide pro bono mechanical engineering for the project, and to host a home in an employee’s backyard. 

It has been an amazing journey, watching the BLOCK Project grow, adapt, and improve. We were excited to watch the construction of the first BLOCK homes targeting Living Building Challenge certification last year. We have also enjoyed getting to know Robert, the first BLOCK resident, who moved from a congregate shelter into the first home in 2017. Thankfully, he has been able to weather the pandemic in the safety and security of his BLOCK home. He is now vaccinated, and like the rest of us, is anxious to get out into the world again.

BLOCK House #1: Robert's home.

It has also been amazing to witness the generosity of the AEC community, stepping up, year after year with financial support, pro bono services, and countless volunteer hours, making a tangible difference in the lives of our unhoused neighbors.

We hope you will join us in support of The BLOCK Project!