New Community Project

Hello,

We are a team of six junior engineering students from James Madison University. A unique feature of JMU Engineering is the opportunity of a two-year long capstone project that focuses on making a positive change in society. The New Community Project, a local non-profit organization, has introduced the opportunity to design and construct a farm building for three refugee families in Harrisonburg, VA. Our team is excited to invite you to support us in creating this unique opportunity for these refugee families by financially contributing to our account.

Project Abstract
Harrisonburg is home to a number of refugees from all over the globe. In their former areas of residence, some of these individuals have previously held agricultural occupations and have expressed interest in continuing these practices. Farming was a method to feed their families and gain income by selling their product. Restaurants and schools within the greater Harrisonburg, Virginia area have also expressed interest in obtaining locally grown sources of fresh produce. Therefore, New Community Project, a local non-profit organization has contracted our engineering capstone team at James Madison University to design and construct a low impact agricultural structure on a parcel of land in Rockingham County, VA. This structure will primarily be used as a storage space for farm produce, farming equipment, and a produce preparation station. The multifunctional requirements must be integrated into a single structure to minimize the building’s footprint. The final design will ensure the structure is economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable to adhere to New Community Project and Madison Engineering Program’s core values. Passive solar techniques, a rainwater catchment system, geothermal cooling, and recycled materials will be prominent features.

Progress
Over the course of the 2016-2017 school year, our team formulated a final conceptual design based on various preliminary design methods. We created and evaluated numerous concepts, which led us to our final one. Our final design will incorporate a walk-in toolshed that leads to an underground root cellar. A rainwater catchment system will be implemented, which will provide the water to a washing station that will be on the side of the tool shed. We are in the process of creating blueprints and getting it approved by Rockingham County.

What’s next?
We are currently raising funds to purchase construction materials.  We are hoping to use reclaimed and recycled materials to decrease the environmental footprint and overall cost of the project. Once the building plans are approved by professional engineers, our team will begin the construction phase.  

Any donations are greatly appreciated and will directly improve the lives of the refugees.  

Thank you,
Tiny Garden House Team