The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is soliciting a call for donations in response to the devastating wildfires that have claimed more than 100 lives and damaged countless structures in Maui.

The AIA shares: "The AIA family is deeply saddened by these recent wildfires and is working in close coordination with AIA Hawaii as recovery efforts get underway. Our 97,000 members and extensive resources are being activated to support Hawaii’s health, safety, and welfare in the weeks, months, and years ahead. AIA’s past experience with disasters of this magnitude tells us that the recovery process is a long, arduous road that architects can, and must help navigate, to make communities whole once again. We cannot bring back what has been lost, but together we can help find a new way forward." 

This summer has seen a spate of natural disasters across the West, including the record heatwaves in Arizona and other wildfires in Colorado and the Mojave Desert. The concerted effort of architects to respond and rebuild has become an important part of the overall emergency apparatus, which, in the past week, has drawn on organizations such as the Red Cross and private interests like Airbnb for support in helping displaced communities in Lahaina and elsewhere on the Big Island and in Maui. 

As such, the AIA Honolulu chapter has begun offering free SAP (safety & assessment program) training for those interested. The national AIA asks that funds be sent to Maui Strong. A link to donate to the group can be found here.