From the beginning, over 42 years ago, the founders of Gates + Associates knew that giving back would be central to their mission. In addition to the impacts of Gates’ many projects that bring wellness, healthy lifestyles and sustainability to our local communities, we always set aside space and time for pro bono projects to further our mission. In honor of #givingtuesday we want to share two of the most recent projects we are proud to have donated our talents to.
Perhaps this will inspire you to share your talents as well. If you know of a project in need of landscape architecture services you think would be a worthy cause, please connect with us.
CLAIRE’S HOUSE
Oakland, CA
Catholic Charities of the East Bay partnered with HomeAid Northern California and Signature Homes to convert a former rectory into Claire’s House, a new therapeutic living community in Oakland. The project was largely funded by a grant from The San Francisco Foundation, and supported by HomeAid Northern California, Signature Homes, Sisters of the Holy Family, William Hezmalhalch Architects, The Boscacci Foundation, and private donations.
Its purpose is to provide a safe, healing environment for teenage victims of human trafficking. It is a Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Program, different from a group home. During their stay, residents receive therapeutic and case management services provided by Catholic Charities, along with resources to pursue their education.
Gates + Associates designed outdoor spaces for reflection, learning and connection with nature. Gates was integrated into this project through a relationship with Cheryl O’Connor, the Executive Director of HomeAid. This relationship is also bringing us into the landscape design of Navigation Centers in the greater Bay Area.
HAYWARD NAVIGATION CENTER
Hayward, CA
Located on City-owned land in Hayward’s industrial area and operated by Bay Area Community Services (BACS), this transitional shelter opened on November 19th, 2019. The center provides services for up to 45 homeless adults at a time. All guests must complete an intake process with BACS staff, which includes a Coordinated Entry and Assessment intake as part of Alameda County’s Coordinated Entry System. During their stay, participants have access to housing placement services and intensive case management, offered by BACS.
The center’s amenities include:
- Laundry, storage, shower & kitchen facilities
- 1 meal per day
- Indoor & outdoor gathering spaces
- ADA-accessible dormitory housing units with twin beds & movable privacy screens
The Center was funded by a combination of state & local sources, and private donations. Placement into permanent housing within 3 months is the goal for each resident, however individuals may stay for up to 6 months.
Gates donated a site vision and was responsible for the landscape design for the campus, which includes outdoor seating areas with shade, bike racks, an on-site garden, and an area for dogs to run and play.
Article written by: Ana Dominguez