As a firm that believes that the environment is central to health, prosperity, and the communities we serve, we were saddened to hear about the disastrous oil spill off the coast of Huntington Beach, CA, in early October. The spill released about 25,000 gallons of oil into the Pacific Ocean, polluting the water and endangering local wildlife. In response, HMC Architects’ nonprofit organization—the Designing Futures Foundation (DFF)— awarded three microgrants to local nonprofits assisting with the cleanup effort: California Coastkeeper Alliance, Huntington Beach Wetlands Conservancy, and the Surfrider Foundation. The foundation will also match all employee donations to the above organizations.

HMC’s DFF was founded in 2009 as a 501(3)(c) organization designed to deepen the firm’s commitment to giving back. Over the past decade, the DFF has invested more than $1M in its communities locally and globally with a focus on architecture and design, STEM and STEAM education, and sustainability. Through HMC’s corporate giving, the DFF scholarship and social innovation grant programs, community partnerships, employee volunteerism, pro bono design services, in-kind donations, and responsible business practices, HMC is building a better world for future generations.

For information on how to volunteer to assist with the cleanup effort click here.