September 9, 2005—The American Institute of Architects is launching a resource matching system, the AIA Hurricane Response Exchange. Members affected by Hurricane Katrina will be able to post details of needed services and items, both personal and business-related. Members with jobs, housing, office space, and other resources will be able to view and respond to these needs as well as offer resources via the exchange.
In addition, the AIA Disaster Assistance Program will offer help with damage assessment and long-term recovery as the organization has done following all major natural disasters.
Notes AIA: While we appreciate our members sincere desire to help, we ask that they be patient until the emergency stage of the response is concluded. This is the time for FEMA, Red Cross, and other first-responders to do their job. The role of architects in disaster response typically begins in the relief stage, and this will not start for a couple of weeks.
For more information, visit the AIA Web site.
