AIA Supports Haiti Earthquake Relief

Posted January 14th, 2010 by AIASD Admin

January 14, 2010

Concerned Colleagues: (see below for Ways to Help or click here)

The utterly devastated lives and communities of Haiti bring into sharp focus how closely connected we are. This unthinkable tragedy cries out for a humane and swift response to help alleviate the suffering and salvage the remaining fabric of families, friends, and loved ones.

Thankfully, the brave citizens of Haiti and first responders around the globe are struggling to rescue as many people as possible during the most critical time in any disaster.

We know from our shared experiences following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and the tsunami in South-east Asia that Haitians need our prayers as well as assistance now and during the long effort toward recovery and rebuilding. We encourage you to do what you can either as a volunteer preparing shipments of supplies or generous contributor to organizations best able to provide the immediate assistance Haitians need in the aftermath of destruction.

We've been in contact with our partners from the Red Cross who have been sending us reports on what is happening on the ground, and they confirm that what's needed most now is your financial assistance to organizations already in place in the rescue operation. We've included a list of the organizations in the best position to provide direct assistance.

Also, as a profession, we know that once the humanitarian relief efforts are stabilized, the next phase of rebuilding begins. So we've been in contact with our colleagues at the US Green Building Council and will be sending a joint letter to United Nations Envoy to Haiti, Former President Bill Clinton, offering our profession's technical and professional expertise when the initiative begins focusing on rebuilding. Additionally, we are discussing ideas with Architecture for Humanity on how architects can provide on-the-ground design guidance in Haiti so local citizens can seek qualified counsel as they rebuild their homes, businesses, and lives. We will continue to keep you informed as our discussions progress. In the meantime, please visit the Architecture for Humanity web site for more information on its mission and ways you can contribute.

There will be much work to be accomplished after the debris is cleared if Haiti is to recover and rebuild their institutions, communities, neighborhoods, and families. You can rest assured that the AIA will extend our profession's offer of the technical and design assistance that we collectively possess when the time comes to begin the rebuilding process. We will connect with you through our colleagues at the AIA Center for Communities by Design so, together, we can humbly offer our professional expertise to help Haitians reclaim their lives and build confidence in their future. Take action today by reviewing the ways in which you can make a difference.

Sincerely,

George H. Miller, FAIA
President

Christine W. McEntee
Executive Vice President/CEO

The American Institute of Architects
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Washington, DC 20006
800-AIA-3437
www.aia.org