PROBLEM STATEMENT:
The current model of transitional housing for the homeless population often fails to engage the individual in the resource that is provided. The result is continuous looping through the system, abusing the temporary shelter provided, without stepping on to longer term housing, employment and enhanced lifestyle solutions.

THESIS PROPOSAL:
To introduce a new intentional community model in Portland for people transitioning
from a life of homelessness and addiction to a residential environment. This model
emphasizes engagement of participants during the process of:

• recovery
• self care
• relational building
• community engagement
• occupational therapy
• individual ownership of place through the design build process while building their own dwellings

The required engagement to step through this building process simultaneously
perpetuates the recovery process and increases opportunity for attaining long-term
housing and employment solutions.