.jpg?1436658453)
Patrick McLoughlin and Chad Johnson are the founders of Build Abroad, a volunteer organization that offers architectural and construction services to developing nations. McLoughlin also sits on the board of Architecture for Humanity in Chicago. In this article they share 3 new ways architects can get involved through volunteering.
In the architectural industry’s current climate, pro bono work is met with a certain stigma. Many architects believe giving time free of charge has a negative impact on the profession and devalues architects everywhere. While this is true in most cases, there is one scenario in which architects should give a small portion of their time to the greater good: humanitarian volunteering. Architecture is certainly a powerful tool, and often much needed in developing areas of the world --- so the next time the words ‘pro bono’ come up, think about helping those who wouldn’t be able to afford architectural services otherwise.
Volunteering as an architect can be an extremely rewarding experience. Aside from the direct impact it has on a community, it can also have a profound effect on the volunteer. It is a chance to get out of the office and do something new, as well as an opportunity to think outside the box, refresh your brain and work on unique challenges that may help expose solutions back in the office. It can also be an excuse to travel and even experience new cultures.
