Concerned Colleagues:
The devastated lives and communities of northern Japan are foremost on our minds. This unfortunate disaster cries out for a swift response to help alleviate the suffering and salvage the remaining fabric of families, friends, and loved ones.
We encourage you to do what you can as a generous contributor to organizations best able to provide the immediate assistance the Japanese people need in the aftermath of destruction. Please review the list of organizations included with this message.
Also, as a profession, we know that once the humanitarian relief efforts are stabilized, the next phase of rebuilding begins. The AIA is forming a Disaster Assistance Task Force that will coordinate our profession’s contribution moving forward and we are in contact with our colleagues at AIA Japan and the Japan Institute of Architects to offer, not only our condolences, but our profession's technical and professional expertise when the initiative begins focusing on rebuilding.
There will be much work to be accomplished after the debris is cleared to recover and rebuild institutions, communities, neighborhoods, and families. You can rest assured that the AIA will be there to help the Japanese people reclaim their lives and build confidence in their future.
Now, in this immediate time of need, we urge you to take action today by reviewing the ways in which you can make a difference.
Sincerely,
Clark D. Manus, FAIA
President
Robert Ivy, FAIA
Executive Vice President/CEO