Join Gabriela & Carlos: GiveBIG to AWBS

*Photo above: My husband Carlos and I leaving the architecture firm where he works last year, with boxes of donated books for the AWBS book sale. 📚

Hi, I’m Gabriela, and I serve on the board of Architects Without Borders – Seattle (AWBS).

I support AWBS because I believe architecture is more than design—it’s a tool communities and organizations use to address challenges and shape their own spaces. AWBS partners with community-based and mission-driven groups to contribute design expertise in ways that are collaborative and responsive.

My journey with AWBS began while working with Fivedot Architects on the Rainier Beach Action Coalition Food Hub Center project. Through that experience, I saw how creating access to resources and technical support can open up more possibilities for communities to lead solutions that reflect their needs and priorities.

Design Meeting with the RBAC Team at Fivedot Architects

Today, AWBS is seeing growing demand for its services. From preserving cultural spaces in Seattle to supporting projects internationally, more organizations are seeking thoughtful, community-informed design.

That’s why I’m raising funds during GiveBIG: to help AWBS continue partnering on these efforts and take on additional projects as capacity allows.

I hope you’ll consider making a gift. Your support helps sustain this collaborative work and contributes to more community-led projects.

RBAC Team, AWBS Volunteer, & Fivedot Team

Thank you for your support!

P.S. Carlos and I are matching the first $250 raised—your gift today will go twice as far.