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.
Expert Knowledge
Program Development & Implementation
- Community Engagement
- Evidence-Based Practices
- Cross-Sector Engagement/Interventions
- Affordable Housing Supportive Services
Consulting
- HUD CoC
- Community Development
- Housing/Homeless Policy
- Homeless Systems of Care
- Strategic Planning
- Organizational Development
Research & Program Evaluation
- Post Occupancy Evaluation
- Regulatory Compliance & Monitoring
- Human Services System Evaluations
- Organizational & Program Assessments
Design
- Trauma-Informed Design
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.
Stephanie Urigwe, OTD, MPH
Social Impact & Strategic Initiatives Manager
Stephanie Urigwe, OTD, MPH is a licensed occupational therapist with more than a decade of experience bridging public health and clinical practice. Stephanie has a passion for implementing trauma-informed care and design strategies into the built environment. She brings forth her understanding of human-centered practice into informing research and strategy development to address socioeconomic policy, limitations and barriers within communities. Stephanie is devoted to formulating beneficial interventions to impact health and wellness outcomes for communities and society, through community engagement, advocacy, and evidence-based research.
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