Facility Renovated Through I-NOMA Design Build Program

Epstein is a proud supporter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and, in this role, we strive to help support the continuance of building strong NOMA chapters of design professionals whose sensibilities and interests include the promotion of all communities.

The I-NOMA Design Build Program is one such effort. During this 12-16 week program, I-NOMA, the Illinois chapter, inspires students to be active participants in uplifting their communities while using architecture as a tool to make those changes.

I-NOMA with CCCS.

This past Tuesday night, December 4th, I-NOMA members and the general public were invited to view this years completed project Chicago Child Care Societys (CCCS) newly renovated multipurpose space and conference room, located at 5467 S. University Avenue.

Epsteins Randy Buescher, AIA, Director of Architecture, and Alexus Davis, Design Professional, both attended the grand opening. Alexus, who has been involved with NOMA for the past 6 years, served as a volunteer for the Design Build program, which involved active consulting sessions with the students and primarily contributing to the renovation of the space.

Alexus with the Design Build directors and volunteers.

During this years program, the students met every Saturday morning, had the opportunity to work directly with CCCS, and take part in the renovations. With the guidance of mentors, Like Alexus, the students played an active role in both designing and constructing the space. These spaces will be used by the staff members of CCCS, as well as the parents and children that use the facility.

The students who participate in this program are usually between the ages of 13-15 8th graders and early high school students. Once they graduate from Design Build, they are encouraged to participate in ACE Mentoring.

Design Build students.

This is the second successful year of Design Build. Last year, we had the pleasure of renovating the teen space at the Erie House, Alexus said.

To learn more about how I-NOMA was able to pull the program together, please click here.

The Chicago Child Care Society (CCCS) is a non-profit organization that supports children, youth and families to reach their full potential with a special focus on early childhood development. They are a multi-service agency serving Chicagos South, Southwest and South suburban areas. Their mission is to provide innovative, community-based education and social service programs that address the current and emerging needs of vulnerable children and their families.