Gates Gives Back 2021
Each year, Gates is fortunate to donate our services to projects throughout the Bay Area. Pro bono projects are unique opportunities to utilize our technical skills towards initiatives that benefit the public good and tangibly share our passion for creating accessible, beautiful, and sustainable spaces. Let’s dive deeper into two special projects from the past year that aim to benefit groups on the fringes of society.
TINY HOME GOODNESS VILLAGE | LIVERMORE, CA
Goodness Village is a master-planned community of 28 tiny homes on acreage provided by CrossWinds Church in Livermore, CA.
Phase One was completed in May 2021. This included constructing the 28 tiny homes; a 2-bedroom community center with communal kitchen and laundry, case management, vocational services, and community engagement; walking trails; and an on-site garden that provides opportunities for cooking, vocational training, and long-term program sustainability through selling goods.
The homes are each 160 square feet, and include a kitchenette, restrooms & showers, central air and heat, and porches.
Gates prepared a conceptual plan for the overall site, a planting and irrigation plan, and details for all fencing and site furnishings. With an emphasis on inclusivity, accessibility, and safety, the ADA-accessible ramps lead up to the 2-bedroom community center as well as eight of the residences. There is ample lighting throughout the campus.
In addition to a vocational program and case management, residents can partake in activities like outdoor movie nights and fitness classes. They can also earn money towards their rent by helping with community upkeep tasks like light landscaping and cleaning/sanitizing units before new participants arrive.
Gates joined this project through HomeAid Northern California, a prior partner on the Claire’s House project in Oakland and the landscape design for Navigation Centers throughout the greater Bay Area. Wood Rodgers, KTGY, and Trumark Homes also donated services to this team effort.
Phase Two (not yet funded) aims to create a community BBQ pavilion to accommodate resident gatherings, supportive service offerings, and culinary vocational training; a larger laundry facility; and a makers market for residents to create and sell arts and crafts.
Read more about the project here.
MIRACLE LEAGUE FIELD IMPROVEMENTS | REDWOOD CITY, CA
Miracle League is an award-winning non-profit whose mission is to provide opportunities for children with developmental and physical differences to play Miracle League baseball, regardless of their abilities. The first Miracle League complex was completed in 2000, and currently there are 300 Miracle League organizations across the continent providing “an inclusive environment where individuals with and without disabilities can come together and enjoy the wonderful game of baseball.”
Gates worked with MLSFP to prepare a conceptual plan (pictured right) for a revamped complex in Redwood City. The improvements will include a synthetic infield surface appropriate for adaptive, all-inclusive play, a concession and restroom building, and a picnic area.
This project is currently in the conceptual plan phase, awaiting City approval and funding. We look forward to seeing this unique facility enjoyed by all!
Article written by: Emily Jensen | Published on November 23, 2021