Across the country, not just in urban areas, America has a multi-generation affordable housing problem. Unfortunately, it is one of the biggest issues with public policy implications that Congress has largely left unaddressed. Thankfully, the same cannot be said for architects, who, like Wayne Mortensen, have been working overtime to solve this problem. Geneva and Quinn sat down this week with Wayne, a Nebraska native, former AIAS Nebraska President, and former AIAS National President, to discuss how he is bridging the gap between architecture, urban design, and social work. He has made unprecedented strides in his career and community-oriented leadership roles. He is a champion for urban communities and their recovery, and his spirit and human-centered practice lends a voice to those who, unfortunately, lack one. Earlier this year, Wayne was awarded the AIA Young Architects Award and has moved back to Lincoln to step into the role of CEO for Neighbor Works Lincoln. When many people have lost hope of ever finding a job or owning their own home again, it is good to know that AIAS played a central role in cultivating Wayne’s career as an architect of communities.