The loss of life and vast property destruction resulting from Hurricane Florence and Typhoon Mangkhut are almost impossible to comprehend. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people in the Carolinas, the Philippines, Hong Kong, and China, and to those who are responding with rescue and relief aid.
As these tragedies have unfolded in the past days, several of you have contacted ULI wanting to know how our organization can help. What these places need first and foremost is relief aid. You can help by donating to the many organizations providing first-response efforts such as the American Red Cross, International Committee of the Red Cross, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, Global Giving, Catholic Relief Services, and Relief International.
In the months and years to come, there will be massive rebuilding in the communities affected by these storms. One of ULI’s great strengths is the member expertise we can bring to this effort, so when the focus turns from relief to recovery and rebuilding, we stand ready to help these communities rebuild for the future.
The Institute has historically provided this help in the form of Advisory Services panels providing recommendations on building for resilience to communities hit by natural and manmade disasters. For instance, a panel is currently in Port Aransas, Texas, advising the community on revitalizing the downtown following flooding from Hurricane Harvey. And in December, we will be convening a panel in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico, to advise on rebuilding following the devastation from Hurricane Maria.
Several of these advisory efforts have been supported by philanthropic gifts to ULI and the Annual Fund. With input from members in the areas affected by Florence and Mangkhut, ULI will seek to provide rebuilding advice at the appropriate time. Your contributions to the Annual Fund will help in this regard.
For now, the focus is on relief for the victims. We encourage you to give generously to support the organizations best able to provide immediate aid.
