Large numbers of people feel confined in their own homes. They are unable to get into their showers, ascend steps, open doors or pass through doorways. Most troubling is that many people are unable to flee their homes in an emergency without assistance because the residences are not properly designed for their specific needs. Freedom by Design™, the AIAS community service program, utilizes the talents of architecture students to radically impact the lives of people in their community through modest design and construction solutions. Vital modifications are made to enhance the homes of low-income and disabled individuals by addressing their struggles with everyday tasks such as bathing, ascending stairs and opening doors. Our priority is improving the safety, comfort and dignity of the home’s occupants.
Through numerous AIAS chapters, Freedom by Design™ (FBD) teaches students how to resolve accessibility issues while simultaneously providing them with the real world experience of working with a client, mentorship from a local architect and constructor, and an understanding of the practical impact of architecture and design. You are invited to get involved. The AIAS is seeking mentors and supporters to help us grow this important program. Please help us better the lives of those in need.
So do you think it would be cool to have this program our school that uses architecture and deign to improve peoples lives?
WE DO! This year marks our launch of this program within iitAIAS. It is not without a team of dedicated students and faculty that our future endeavors will be successful. We are asking YOU if you want to be part of this.
Email aias@iit.edu for questions.
