1. News Release
March 27, 2007 Contacts: Kai Stansberry, PATH Partners
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (213) 761-0159; kais@pathpartners.org
AIA’S PRESTIGIOUS 2007 SPECIAL HOUSING AWARD RECOGNIZES
INNOVATIVE DESIGN FOR THE HOMELESS IN HOLLYWOOD
(LOS ANGELES) – The pioneering Regional Homeless Center in Hollywood operated
by People Assisting the Homeless (PATH) is one of 19 distinguished projects nationwide to
receive a prestigious 2007 Special Housing Award from the American Association of Architects
(AIA) for its exceptional design quality and innovation.
Jeffrey M. Kalban & Associates Architects, Inc., a Los Angeles firm specializing in
residential, educational, corporate office and hotel design, was awarded the prize for “special
housing, good housing as a necessity of life, a sanctuary for the human spirit and a valuable
national resource.” The award also cited the design for enhancing the environment and the
building’s neighborhood.
An innovative and sophisticated structure completed in 2002 on a strict budget, the
PATH Regional Homeless Center is the result of a major renovation of an abandoned 1960’s,
three-story office building and warehouse. The 40,000-square-foot Center now boasts a cheerful
environment, vibrant airy spaces and colorful wallscapes, designed to help homeless navigate a
mall-like atmosphere to access a diversity of services.

2. The lobby and main floor actuate a “shopping mall” concept, where storefronts for 20
social service agencies provide a welcoming setting for homeless clients in need of employment
services, mental health and substance abuse counseling, a full-service beauty salon and a
courtroom that hears misdemeanor cases.
The second and third floors consist of 98 residential units for homeless men, women and
families, offering privacy and a sense of personal space, as well as nearby medical services. The
building also serves as a hub for myriad community events.
“We are grateful for the AIA recognition,” said Joel John Roberts, chief executive officer
of PATH. “The project not only has expanded the framework for which social services are
provided in the community, but also proves good design can make a world of difference in
restoring dignity and hope in the lives of the homeless.”
Each year PATH serves 4,500 homeless men, women and children in Los Angeles
County, providing them with more than 17,000 service visits and the resources they need to find
housing, employment and self-sufficiency.
“Founded in 1984, PATH is a non-profit community organization committed to breaking the
cycle of homelessness by providing a full range of housing and supportive services that that
equip individuals with the tools to empower their lives. Each year, PATH serves more than 4,500
homeless men, women, and children from throughout Los Angeles County. PATH is a member
of PATH Partners, a family of agencies helping people in need.”
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