Supporting Community Development in Puerto Rico

We have been collaborating closely over the past few months with selected communities as part of the Participatory Design Lab Round 3, a program that empowers communities to take an active role in shaping their future. One of the most inspiring projects we’ve been involved in is the transformation of the abandoned Eugenio María de Hostos School in Guayanes, Yabucoa, into a dynamic community center. This initiative aims to revive a critical asset of this remote coastal community, which has been without a central gathering place since the school’s closure several years ago. The Eugenio María de Hostos School once served as the heart of the community, acting as a space for learning, social interaction, and mutual support, especially during difficult times. Its closure not only left a physical void but also removed an essential support network for the residents. Since then, the community has struggled to access basic services, with essential amenities being over 15 minutes away by car, posing a significant challenge for many who do not have reliable transportation. Additionally, this lack of access has placed an added burden on a community already facing economic hardships, as the majority of its residents live below the poverty line. By revitalizing the school into a community center, we aim to provide a much-needed space for education, support services, social events, and other essential resources, effectively breathing new life into the community and fostering a sense of hope and resilience.

In tandem with this project, we are also collaborating with a group of agroecological farmers from the eastern side of the island. This collective has taken a proactive step by renting a space where they can sell their produce, creating an opportunity not only for economic growth but also for building a sense of community and self-sustainability. Our role in this project involves designing the space to be multifunctional, envisioning it as more than just a market. The goal is to develop a venue that can serve as a meeting point, training center, and organizational hub where farmers can come together to share knowledge, organize events, and advocate for broader agroecological initiatives. This initiative aims to support local food systems, strengthen the agroecological movement, and create a sustainable economic model that benefits both farmers and consumers.

Both of these projects are currently in the participatory design phase, which means we are actively engaging with community members, farmers, and local stakeholders to ensure that the designs reflect their needs, aspirations, and cultural identity. This collaborative approach not only fosters a sense of ownership but also ensures that the spaces we are creating are functional, inclusive, and sustainable. We anticipate beginning construction soon and are excited to see these visions come to life. We will continue to keep you updated as we move forward, sharing the successes and learnings from these projects as they progress.