The 2013 Class Project: Promise House!

So with a few leadership sessions under our belts, the Class of 2013 is making strides.

The nametags have disappeared.  Driving to DCFA comes naturally.  (Even if parking still may not).  And you can bet that Pete DeLisle will leave you feeling challenged and inspired by the end of each monthly leadership training session.  Forgot a name?  Wanting more inspiration?  Well, there's always the Happy Hour...

So as the Class of 2013 began to develop those personal relationships with each other, they asked the question:

"...what should we do for our class project?"

The class project is a charitable, volunteer endeavor taken on by each ELP class.  It's often a civic, and/or non-profit need... presumably that can be filled by the fantastic talents of energetic young designers!  So what has the Class of 2013 chosen?  After a few great options, the Class quickly coalesced around the needs of one organization: Promise House.

Promise House seeks to provide homeless, run-away, and at-risk teens a safer path out of their current circumstances.  They provide many services, including shelter.  For a deeper dive, take a look at their website:  http://www.promisehouse.org/index.php/about-us

Promise House has a Street Outreach program that seeks to take these teens in.  Except, when they can't!  Due to a lack of space, they turn people away every week.  So... enter the ELP Class of 2013.  We'll be designing, permitting, and fitting-out shell space at their Oak Cliff facility in South Dallas.  The goal is to provide additional beds and communal space for at least a half dozen teens, who will otherwise be turned away.

The Class met with Promise House's executive leadership in March.  We were inspired by their vision and leadership as we toured the space, listened to ideas, and generally learned more about each other.  We left with a sense of urgency.  In the months ahead, we'll be advancing the design and documentation of the space.  But we'll also be promoting and fundraising for the project.

Bake sale, anyone?  (...um, really.  Not kidding!)


Jordan Thompson