Building for the future

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In July 2011, Sasha Bruce Youthwork’s governing Board of Directors accepted the donation of two adjoining lots totaling roughly one-quarter of an acre at 5032 D Street SE in Ward 7. Our vision is to rehabilitate an existing, abandoned structure on one of these lots for use as affordable, service-enriched transitional housing for homeless youth.

Our workforce development program, YouthBuild, has extensive experience in training youth and young adults in a variety of construction trades. We are eager to use this donated property as our very own, hands-on training site and community service endeavor for the young people enrolled in our YouthBuild Program.

In December 2011, we were selected by Reed Construction Data and AEC Cares for a one-day site renovation project on May 16, 2012. Leveraging its extensive network of construction trade organizations, Reed Construction Data will be soliciting sponsor packages of building materials, furniture and expert labor and anticipates up to 150 building professionals will donate their time and expertise to help move our vision into reality.

A Development Committee will lend expertise as we create architectural plans, build community support, navigate the District’s land use regulations, and as we organize and raise funds for the rehabilitation project.

Stovall Smith Neyman Architects has agreed to serve as architect and we have completed a preliminary design for the project. Superior Home Services, an award winning, local construction firm, will be the project manager. They will manage scheduling, cost estimating, organizing sponsors and donations, pre-delivery of materials for installation on May 16th, and organization of youth training.

The facility will provide a safe place for up to 8 at-risk youth in a home-like environment with bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, dining area, powder room, living room, possible community meeting space and offices for staff. We are excited about incorporating green or energy saving measures. We expect excellent local and perhaps national media coverage of this project, and we are working closely with the District of Columbia government to ensure broad-based support from elected officials and other public servants.

Donate through our website to support this important project by selecting the Building for the Future Fund in the program designation field, or call James Beck at 202-675-9340.

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