Global architectural firm HOK (Hellmuth, Obata + Kassabaum, Inc.), a recognized pioneer and leader in green design, is funding the construction upgrades, outfitting, staffing and launch of a solar-powered diagnostic and treatment center in southeastern rural Kenya.

HOK's $500,000 donation to Africa Infectious Disease Village Clinics, Inc., will enable the Chicago-based public charity to launch the most comprehensive tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and treatment initiative in the region. Announced to coincide with HOK's 50th anniversary year, the contribution exemplifies the firm's long-standing commitment to enriching people's lives and creating more sustainable communities.

"Of all of the possible ways we could have celebrated our 50th anniversary, we chose a project that would tangibly meet basic human needs in a simple and powerful way - using an existing structure and energy-efficient solar power," says Bill Valentine, Chairman of HOK. "In its broadest sense, sustainability is about creating healthy, responsible and economically viable communities, which can mean ensuring that basic human needs, such as access to quality health care, are satisfied."

Located at the 24-building Mbirikani Clinic complex, the HOK Diagnostic and Treatment Center began to see patients on June 25, 2005, and has performed 174 X-rays in its first month of operation. Upgrades continue to be made to the facility, which is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2005. The facility is intended to conduct safe and effective X-ray procedures, screening patients for TB and other conditions and illnesses. The upgraded center is designed to meet the needs of the indigenous Maasai villagers who, like other underserved rural African populations, are bearing the brunt of a terrible health crisis.

The new Center minimizes the need to refer patients to the nearest available diagnostic facility - a two-day walk - to undergo X-ray procedures that greatly enhance treatment options and outcomes.

AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and other infectious diseases in Africa devastate communities, economies and governments. There is a clear correlation between inadequate health care and lack of effective diagnosis and treatment of infectious disease, including HIV/AIDS, and a reduction in gross domestic product (GDP) per capita.

"As the world becomes smaller via international trade and business, we must consider the citizens of all countries our neighbors. Africans, who are so overwhelmingly impacted by AIDS, tuberculosis and other infectious diseases, should be a concern of every individual, company and organization around the world," states Ann Lurie, Chairman and President of AID Village Clinics. "HOK is to be commended for its commitment to creating sustainable communities and for being a philanthropic leader in the architectural profession."

The HOK Diagnostic and Treatment Center is housed in a building renovated by Economic Housing Group (EHG), the Nairobi-based construction firm which built the Mbirikani Clinic complex using modular systems designed by architects at the University of Nairobi Housing and Research Unit. A formal dedication of the Center is scheduled for October 2005 to coincide with HOK's 50th Anniversary celebration.

About Africa Infectious Disease Village Clinics, Inc. (AID Village Clinics)
AID Village Clinics is a rapidly growing clinical initiative becoming recognized for its ability to successfully deliver antiretroviral treatment under extreme resource-poor conditions of rural Africa. A registered U.S. public charity, AID Village Clinics' mission is to improve the health and quality of life for rural village communities in Africa by providing timely and accurate disease diagnosis, treatment, prevention and healthcare education. The clinic site is the Mbirikani Group Ranch, a 300,000-acre compound 125 miles southeast of Nairobi, home to indigenous Maasai people. In working with the Maasai, AID Village Clinics is dedicated to building capacity within the community while adhering to the principle of respect for its culture, people, land, and in general, their way of life.

About HOK
HOK is a global architectural firm that specializes in planning, design and delivery solutions for buildings and communities. Through its collaborative network of 22 offices worldwide, the firm serves diverse clients within the corporate, commercial, public and institutional markets. HOK is committed to developing resources and expertise to help lead the world toward sustainable communities and building environments. Founded in 1955, the firm's expertise includes architecture, engineering, interiors, planning, lighting, graphics, facilities planning and assessment, and construction services.

HOK

HOK

HOK is a global architectural firm that specializes in planning, design and delivery solutions for buildings and communities. Through its collaborative network of 22 offices worldwide, the firm serves diverse clients within the corporate, commercial, public and institutional markets. HOK is committed to developing resources and expertise to help lead the world toward sustainable communities and building environments. Founded in 1955, the firm's expertise includes architecture, engineering, interiors, planning, lighting, graphics, facilities planning and assessment, and construction services.

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