Power of SUNY

UB Architecture Students Build Homes for Local Families

The University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning received the 2010 Award for Community Partnership from Habitat for Humanity Buffalo in recognition of a Community Design Service course it offers each summer in which students build homes for Buffalo families.

More than 600 UB students have participated in the program since its inception in 1991. In that time, they have built 47 houses - about a quarter of the total number of houses the Habitat for Humanity has built in and around Buffalo during the 25 years the organization has been active in the area.

The Community Design Service course helps UB students connect with the community around them, demonstrating that they can make a difference in the city of Buffalo. The construction skills students learn through the program provide a basic understanding of a contractor's job - a valuable experience for architects who must work closely with builders - and their work simultaneously helps local families become homeowners.

The community partnership award was presented by Habitat for Humanity Buffalo at an Oct. 16, 2010, celebration marking the organization's 25th anniversary.