by Brianna Crandall — November 7, 2012—International professional organization The American Institute of Architects issued the following statement from AIA President Jeff Potter, FAIA, on October 31 with regard to the assessment and recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Sandy’s impact:
“To the many communities in Hurricane Sandy’s path, members of the AIA and the AIA National Disaster Assistance Committee send our hopes for their safety. The AIA will work closely with our colleagues, as we have following other severe weather events, to assist local communities in their recovery efforts.
“Through our network of chapters, we are beginning to assess the damage to communities in the Northeast region. Now that the storm is passing, we will formulate plans to assist architects there in evaluating the building damage caused by the storm and map a path to recovery.
“Meanwhile, experienced disaster responders with the AIA have resources to help prepare architects for this important role. Visit our Web page to get an overview of the AIA Disaster Response Program.
“A commitment to public service is a core value of our profession. We intend to live up to that value in the hours and days ahead as we prepare to assist the communities hit by Hurricane Sandy.”
The AIA encourages anyone wishing to donate to the recovery effort to consider making a contribution to the organization’s partners, Architecture for Humanity, a nonprofit design services firm working to build a more sustainable future through tapping the power of professional design. The AIA and Architecture for Humanity have a strategic partnership to coordinate advocacy, education, and training that helps architects make effective contributions to communities preparing for, responding to, and rebuilding after disaster.
