About AIAJoin AIAContact AIAFind an ArchitectAIA StoreAIA Jobs
SIGN IN!
Practicing Architecture Education Contract Documents Conferences & Events Advocacy Career Stages
 
AIA Disaster Assistance Program



The Disaster Assistance Program is hosted by the
AIA Center for Communities by Design. The Center is a catalyst, convener, and source of information that helps AIA members work with citizens and other stakeholders to envision and create more livable communities. 


Contact Disaster Assistance


The Disaster Assistance program encourages architects to use their skills to help communities recover from disasters. The AIA National component strives to provide leadership, advocacy and training to improve the disaster preparedness of its membership. The program coordinates with local AIA chapters and the larger disaster response community to train locally based teams of volunteer architects to respond in the event of a disaster. A dedicated network of state coordinators fulfills an invaluable role by coordinating with local or state emergency management agencies. When disasters occur, these coordinators lead volunteer AIA members and can conduct structural assessments and document damage. It is our primary concern to serve society by ensuring that people can return to their homes as quickly and safely as possible after a disaster.

About the Program

The Architect's Role in Disaster Response

AIA Disaster Coordinator Network

Contact the Disaster Assistance program to volunteer

News and Events

New: AIA Testifies Before Homeland Security Committee regarding Post-Disaster Housing

New: Read the statement delivered by Erica Gees, AIA

Shelter after the Disaster: Podcast on the Alternative Housing Program for the Gulf Coast.

Resources and Tools

Handbook for Disaster Assistance Programs outlines initial and long-term disaster responses for AIA members

Damage Assessment Worksheet (PDF) for volunteers assisting in recovery efforts.

Information on Good Samaritan Legislation

Checklist for Wind Storm-Damaged Structures

Flood Damage-Assessment Procedures

2004 Tsunami Disaster - Sri Lanka: Issues, Observations, Suggestions

Other disaster-related resources