Architecture for Humanity

[for Humanity] is a nonprofit founded in 1999 to promote architectural and design solutions to global, social and humanitarian crises. Through competitions, workshops, educational forums, partnerships with aid organizations and other activities, Architecture for Humanity creates opportunities for architects and designers from around the world to help communities in need.

In addition to implementing design initiatives and competitions, Architecture for Humanity aims to promote humanitarian and social design through advocacy and education programs. To that end, they have consulted with government bodies and relief organizations on a number of projects, including mine clearance programs and playground building in the Balkans; developing a [health clinc] to combat HIV/AIDS; [housing] for returning refugees and IDPs; earthquake recovery assistance in Turkey and Iran; and refugee housing on the borders of Afghanistan.

Finally, the organization seeks to foster public appreciation for the many ways that architecture and design can improve lives.

"Architecture for Humanity represents the finest of the new breed of architectural leadership, employing architectural skills and directing them for the larger good," wrote Robert Ivy, editor of Architectural Record about the organization. "Committed, unapologetically architectural in name and mission, Architecture for Humanity stands up for people in need."