Faith-Based Organizations Seek Architectural Expertise
June
20, 2002
CONTACT
Allyson C. Ward,
award@hewitt-washington.com
Hewitt-Washington
& Associates
Phone.504.529.1417
Fax.504.529.5246
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW ORLEANS – The rise in faith-based organizations’ pursuit of architectural services could change the way traditional churches are viewed. It has been reported that local faith based organizations are turning to professional architects at a frequent rate in the wake of the federal government’s willingness to fund social programs. Within the past six months, there has been an increase in the amount of requests for professional services issued by churches and other faith-based organizations. Many are seeking to expand worship facilities while others seek to add facilities that would allow for programs such as tutoring, childcare, adult education, counseling and more. Lonnie Hewitt, Jr. of Hewitt-Washington & Associates reported that more than eight churches have contacted his office within the year to request proposals for various architectural needs.
With this recent upsurge come questions regarding the future of churches and their roles in their surrounding communities. Mega churches are paving the way and as a result, smaller churches are now seeking to expand their membership, implement capital fundraising campaigns and open satellite facilities. Multipurpose centers are hot items for those seeking to expand. Usually a multipurpose facility will include spaces for religious instruction, banquets and receptions, indoor recreation and various other social services for seniors and low-income families. Some multipurpose centers can even be transformed into sanctuaries or worship areas when not in use for social service and community functions.
In the New Orleans area, church expansion and social programming appears to be on the rise. A recent faith-based seminar held in New Orleans and sponsored by the Bush Administration in May, highlighted key areas of interest for churches seeking to expand their ministries. Some of the topics discussed included grant writing, implementing social programs and establishing non-profit organizations.
Two church organizations from Texas shared their experiences in building affordable homes in the Houston and Dallas areas. Ordained ministers led the efforts that included land acquisition, financing, and building. One Houston group transformed 58 acres of undeveloped land into a 203-home neighborhood complete with gateway entry, spacious yards and a professionally managed homeowners association. Local ministers attending the seminar were impressed by the development and said they will use the information as they plan for their own.
For more information about Hewitt-Washington & Associates and other projects, visit www.hewitt-washington.com or contact Allyson C. Ward at 504-529-1417.
Lonnie Hewitt, Jr. and James R. Washington, Jr. founded HEWITT-WASHINGTON & ASSOCIATES in 1978. The firm is known for its outstanding architectural designs. Some of HWA’s most noted projects include the Aquarium of the Americas, the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center Phase III Expansion, and the historically sensitive McDonald’s on St. Charles Avenue.