as architects we possess skills that help our clients realize their dreams. as socially minded professionals, we have the ability, some might even say responsibility, to help those without adequate housing realize

their dream of one day providing a decent home for their family. st. francis xavier rocky point house build program, in association with amor ministries, is a volunteer organization that works with families to realize that dream. amor ministries is a non-denominational relief and development agency which specializes in

facilitating short-term building projects in mexico. twice a year our group participates in five day home building projects. in that short time, volunteers construct simple, weather tight, secure structures in the

barrios of puerto penasco, mexico. i encourage you to use your skills to assist those in need.

the neighborhood, a barrio in puerto penasco, mexico

home owner francisco, a masons apprentice, lends a helping hand by mixing concrete

the existing home consists of a patchwork of found materials including scrap lumber, sheets of plastic and old garage doors

pouring the concrete slab, the existing home has a dirt floor

framing the walls and roof…

…erecting the structure…

…adding a window

wire substrate covered with building paper and chicken wire will support the stucco

home owner francisco mixes the stucco

first coat of stucco…

…second coat of stucco

the completed home, secure and weather tight

the family and our team leader, john arthur

the home build team: professionals, students and concerned citizens

why we do it…the children now have a safe place to sleep