Social Impact Studio
WestEast Design's Social Impact Studio (SIS) is spearheaded by a licensed master's degree social worker, dedicated to undertaking comprehensive projects in the realm of human service initiatives. Our work includes but is not limited to homeless facilities encompassing emergency shelters, supportive housing options, and transformational campuses. Our commitment to excellence and social welfare drives us to employ a multidimensional approach that addresses diverse societal challenges.
The SIS takes pride in its research-driven designs, particularly in the domain of trauma-informed design (TID). We delve into contemporary literature on TID and actively involve existing consumers of affordable housing in our investigations. We assimilate the valuable consumer perspective through focus group sessions, ensuring that the design and function of these communities resonate with the needs and preferences of their inhabitants.
At the heart of our endeavors lies an ambition to serve as a catalyst in addressing social crises and cultivating thriving communities. By applying our meticulously honed methodologies and leveraging our team's expertise, we aim to effectuate positive change on a significant scale.
The SIS firmly believes that fostering healthy and supportive environments can contribute substantially to the betterment of society as a whole. With an unwavering commitment to social impact, we persistently strive to improve the lives of those we serve and shape a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Core Principles
Trauma-Informed
We understand the impact of trauma on the human experience and this understanding permeates every phase of our process
Person Centered
We value the worth and dignity of all people
Recovery-Oriented
We understand that each person is unique and should be supported in making their own decisions regarding what recovery means for them
System-Perspective
We understand the complexities of social issues and the need for multi-sector and multi-system approaches to analyzing and solving them
Evidence-Based
We incorporate peer-reviewed research into each phase of our process, allowing us to continuously learn and improve
Our Team
Scott Ackerson, LMSW
Director
Scott Ackerson, LMSW, has served on the local CoC Board and is Chair of the CoC Membership Committee, helping to organize all the partner organizations for the CoC. He was also responsible for the creation and coordination of the wraparound services, partner relations, and program development at the Haven for Hope Campus, including behavioral health and workforce development.
James Andrews, FRIBA, AIA'Int'l Assoc, LEED AP
Vice President
James Andrews, FRIBA, AIA INT'L ASSOC, LEED AP, has over thirty years of Urban Design and Architectural experience. His background includes designing nationally recognized facilities for those experiencing homelessness and suffering trauma. A strategic thinker and consensus builder who understands the myriad of challenges facing communities and stakeholders. He focuses on human centered solutions that strive to bring consensus and are specific to local needs.
Katherine Dillard Gonzalez, PhD
Director of Research
Dr. Katherine Dillard Gonzalez has worked with government agencies and non-profit organizations in many states nationwide over the last 18 years. Her research and practice are focused on the intersection of homelessness, behavioral health, housing, and community development. This work is accomplished by integrating systems thinking and an organizational development approach to inform re-designing structures for social services.
Sarah Akhtar, LPC, MSW
Project Manager
Sarah is a Licensed Professional Counselor who started her career in mental health providing direct-care treatment to diverse populations across various settings. Limited in her role as a mental health counselor, Sarah pursued a master's in social work to focus on addressing systemic issues and inequalities. Sarah integrates a systems and ecological approach to address the root cause of problems, upholding the wellbeing of individuals while acknowledging the role of systems in perpetuating injustices and inequality.
Brian Sowell, RA, NCaRB
Project Architect
Brian Sowell has national experience designing and managing projects across a broad range of typologies including churches, offices, retail, community centers, and housing. Brian is adept at campus master planning and concept design, as well as an expert in building science and the technical requirements of construction documents. His experience working with churches and large organizations has provided the opportunity to work within a variety of project delivery methods, and led to expertise communicating project process to his clients.
Allan Woiwood
Writer & Researcher
Allan Woiwood, has over thirty five years of Product Management / Product Ownership experience. His background includes being a Certified SAFe® 5 Product Owner/Product Manager professional who works with customers and development organizations including identifying and writing requirements. An Innovator who utilizes expertise in interdisciplinary problem-solving techniques to ensure solution sets are industry leaders. He has spent numerous years volunteering in non-profits and is now focused on combining his professional expertise with a passion purpose to help make a positive impact for people without voices.
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