History

The History of Building Changes

Building Changes, formerly known as AIDS Housing of Washington (AHW), was founded as a Seattle-based nonprofit organization in 1988 to develop Bailey-Boushay House, a skilled nursing facility and day health program for one of our community's most vulnerable populations—persons dying from AIDS. As the needs of this population changed, AHW responded by developing unparalleled expertise in helping our community—and communities nationwide—find ways to help all homeless populations secure the housing and life-saving services they need to build healthy, stable lives.

Community Partnerships

Through community partnerships, we have created more than 160 units of housing for low-income people with HIV/AIDS in King County, Washington. Residents of these housing projects are offered a range of services to meet their diverse needs, such as case management, mental health and chemical dependency counseling, and employment services. It is this addition of personalized services that makes these housing projects so successful in truly breaking the cycle of homelessness.

New name, new mission, same commitment to homes 
and services for those in need

In November 2007, AIDS Housing of Washington adopted the name Building Changes to better reflect our new mission and expanding programs. Throughout our 20-year history, we have developed innovative and effective housing and social service programs for chronically ill and disenfranchised people. From creating service-enriched housing for people living with HIV/AIDS, to consulting with social service agencies, housing providers, and government agencies in all states across the country and in all U.S. territories, to successfully securing homes and services for high-risk families in Washington State, our consistent focus has been on promoting the dignity, health, safety, and prosperity of people with the greatest need.

Today, as Building Changes, we have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to make a bigger societal impact by applying our deep knowledge; years of experience; strong relationships; and passion for eliminating poverty, inequity, and prejudice to help end homelessness in Washington State.