"As whenever disaster strikes, it will be many days before the full impact of the storm is brought to light, and which communities will be in largest need of design support as the broader reconstruction effort proceeds. However we are not waiting for water to recede before preparing a reconstruction campaign." - Cameron Sinclair, Architecture for Humanity co-founder
Since Hurricane Sandy struck New York and New Jersey last week, Architecture for Humanity volunteers have been in action - not just aiding in the recovery efforts, but also analyzing how/where long-term reconstruction efforts will need to be focused. Indeed, Architecture for Humanity's co-founder, Cameron Sinclair, has already published the organization's 5-point strategy for long-term reconstruction in the areas most severely impacted by Sandy.
Architecture For Humanity's strategy for reconstruction (and more information on how you can get involved), after the break....
Architecture For Humanity's five-point plan for long-term reconstruction:
1. Enable our local chapters to provide technical assistance and support to existing recovery agencies.
2. Provide design and construction assistance to nonprofits and community-based organizations in affected communities to repair civic structures and public spaces.
3. Provide technical assistance to property owners, with a focus on small businesses and rental properties in low-income communities.
4. Provide community design, planning and architectural support to local agencies to rebuild and to develop model mitigation strategies, especially along the New Jersey shore.
5. Build back green. Provide assistance to replace outdated building systems with more sustainable energy-efficient solutions.
For now, the organization, in partnership with the American Institute of Architects (AIA), is looking for support for two of their programs: ReNew York and ReNew Jersey // Restore the Shore (a separate program to help coastal communities, such as Long Beach and Seaside Heights, where 80-90% of all properties sustained some type of damage, recover).
If you're interested in providing your services to the Reconstruction efforts, you can get in touch with Architecture for Humanity at volunteer@architectureforhumanity.org; donate; and follow their efforts on Twitter @archforhumanity and (for on the ground updates) @afhdisasterteam
Or check out our Post: More Ways to Help.
