Reed Construction Data Announces New AEC Cares' Project for Impoverished Children in Chicago
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Reed and AEC Cares team up with Metropolitan Family Services to brighten and renovate a center that provides daycare and early learning for infants, toddlers and preschoolers on Chicago's South Side.
Reed Construction Data announces AEC Cares' fourth annual "blitz build" that brings together design and construction professionals for a special project within a new community every year. Joining forces with Metropolitan Family Services, AEC Cares will renovate a 30-year-old building that provides daycare and early learning for infants, toddlers and preschoolers from very low-income families. The project takes place in June, on the day before the AIA National Convention in Chicago – allowing attendees and exhibitors to participate in the rewarding volunteer experience.
This year, AEC Cares will tackle Metropolitan's newest learning and wellness center, a former school building on Chicago's South Side. The center offers early learning programs for children who are 6 weeks to 5 years of age, giving them a safe place to stay during the day, while building their confidence, their language and social skills, and their interest in learning. The goal for the project is to transform the dull, dated building into a bright, cheerful and fun place that helps Metropolitan inspire the children to achieve.
"We are honored this year to bring AEC Cares to the Chicago community," stated Renee Pinczes, Vice President of Finance, Reed Construction Data, and Board President, AEC Cares. "Working with Metropolitan and our exceptional group of volunteers, we can create an exciting and fresh environment that encourages young children to learn and excel."
On June 25, 2014, AEC Cares will bring together teams of professionals and volunteers from Reed Construction Data, the AIA and Hanley Wood for the one-day "blitz build" event that will complete the center's transformation. The 150-plus volunteers will rally to build a colorful play area and renovate the building interior.
"Metropolitan truly appreciates this opportunity to work with AEC Cares and Reed to make the most of our new learning and wellness center," said Ric Estrada, President and CEO, Metropolitan Family Services. "This generosity will help us provide services in an attractive environment that welcomes and affirms the families we serve."
AEC Cares has a four-year record of successful projects organized by Reed Construction Data. Starting in 2011, AEC Cares and Reed rebuilt five houses in New Orleans devastated years earlier by Hurricane Katrina. In 2012, teams of architects, contractors and manufacturers added their time and talent to rebuild a house for homeless teens in Washington, D.C., and in 2013, the volunteer teams completed over $225K worth of renovations to a facility for homeless, disabled veterans and adults in Denver.
"We are excited for the opportunity to work once again with AEC Cares and all of our exceptional volunteers and sponsors to create something magical for the children of this community," said Laura Marlow, Senior Director of Business Development, Reed Construction Data. "On project after project, we've been able to see firsthand the profound impact we are making for those who need it most."
To join the AEC Cares' project or find more information about AEC Cares, visit www.AECcares.com.
About AEC Cares
AEC Cares is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation actively supported by Reed Construction Data, with the AIA and Hanley Wood, generous sponsors, donors and volunteers. Bringing together architects, contractors, manufacturers and industry professionals from across the United States and Canada, AEC Cares works to create positive change through meaningful projects that benefit a new community every year. To learn more about AEC Cares, visit www.AECcares.com.
About Metropolitan Family Services
Metropolitan Family Services empowers families to learn, to earn, to heal, to thrive. Part mentor, part motivator, part advocate, since 1857 Metropolitan has been the engine of change that empowers families to reach their greatest potential and positively impact their communities. Metropolitan reaches more than 63,000 families and individuals annually through seven community centers, with services that promote education, economic stability, emotional wellness and empowerment. For more information, visit www.metrofamily.com.
About Reed Construction Data
Reed Construction Data, a division of Reed Business Information and the Inaugural Strategic Partner of the AIA, is a leading North American provider of construction information. Reed provides actionable insight to construction professionals through a diverse portfolio of innovative products and services, including national, regional and local construction project data, accurate and reliable construction cost data, effective marketing solutions and dynamic market intelligence. To learn more about Reed, visit www.reedconstructiondata.com.
