About EWB-MAP
Introduction
Engineers Without Borders USA (EWB-USA) is a non-profit humanitarian organization established to partner with developing communities worldwide in order to improve their quality of life. This partnership involves the implementation of sustainable engineering projects, while involving and training internationally responsible engineers and engineering students.
The activities of EWB-USA range from the construction of sustainable systems that developing communities can own and operate without external assistance, to empowering such communities by enhancing local, technical, managerial and entrepreneurial skills. These projects are initiated by, and completed with, contributions from the host community working with our project teams.
EWB Chapters & Partners
EWB-USA has over 200 developing and established chapters working on over 170 projects in 41 countries. In addition, over 15 companies and professional organizations have partnered with EWB to help finance the projects we have taken on, including, but not limited to: Consulting Engineering firms CH2M Hill, CDM, GeoEngineers, Landau Engineers, Walter P. Moore; Organizations such as ASFE, ASCE, ASME, and The United Engineering Foundation, Inc.; as well as refinery firms BP and Chevron. With students and professionals, EWB-USA contributes to meeting the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) through capacity building in community projects. Capacity building is defined in that context as “…the building (or strengthening) of human, institutional and infrastructure capacity to help societies develop secure, stable and sustainable economies, governments and other institutions through mentoring, training, education, physical projects, the infusion of financial and other resources, and most importantly, the motivation and inspiration of people to improve their lives” (Hatch, 2004).
EWB-MAP
The Philadelphia regional chapter, EWB-Mid-Atlantic Professionals (EWB-MAP), focuses its efforts on the following:Rwanda Health and Healing Project
EWB-MAP has partnered with Thomas Jefferson university to help the Rwanda Health and Healing Project in an effort to improve the the health of those living in Rugerero, Rwanda. By completing this project, EWB-USA will be able to improve access to clean water for drinking, bathing, cleaning, and cooking for over 100 households. For more information, please visit our projects page.
Supporting Student ChaptersEWB-MAP links local student chapters with technical advisors and mentors for universities such as Drexel University, Rowan University, University of Delaware, University of Pennsylvania, Villanova University, and Widener University. We also provide an opportunity for student chapter alumni to continue volunteering for EWB-MAP.
Supporting the Philadelphia Global Water Initiative (PGWI)PGWI is a group of individuals and organizations committed to meeting the UN Millennium Development Goals for water and sanitation. Through its project work, EWB-MAP will support the goals of PGWI and help empower developing communities to initiate sustainable engineering projects that will improve the quality of life for current and future generations. Visit PGWI at www.pgwi.net.
Coordinating ConferencesEWB provides professional development workshops for student chapters and professionals interested in learning more about EWB, sustainable development, fundraising, and project preparation, among other items.
Supporting Greater Philadelphia CaresGreater Philadelphia Cares (GPC) helps make a difference in the Greater Philadelphia region through supporting the establishment of vibrant communities by motivating people to volunteer their time, talents, and resources. We provide a clear path to service for all, enhancing the impact of non-profit agencies throughout the Greater Philadelphia region. Learn how you can help by visiting http://www.philacares.com/volunteer.htm.