Rebuild-Better
A Message of Support to Fire Victims Across Southern California
To the individuals, families, and communities affected by the fires across Southern California, my heart goes out to you during this incredibly challenging time. The devastation you are experiencing—the loss of homes, memories, and the sense of security—is unimaginable. Please know that you are not alone as you face this crisis. My deepest condolences go out to you and your loved ones.
I am a volunteer safety evaluator for the California Office of Emergency Services (CAL OES) Safety Assessment Program (SAP). This program utilizes trained volunteers and professionals, including architects, engineers, and certified building inspectors, to assist local governments in evaluating the safety of buildings after a disaster. If called to action, I will be on the front lines helping to assess the suitability of partially damaged structures for the possible retrieval of personal effects. If my expertise can be of any help during this time, I am here to support you.
In the meantime, I want to share some resources to help safeguard your home and prepare for the future, as well as information for those navigating recovery. Whether your home was spared or affected, taking steps toward resilience is vital for the challenges that lie ahead.
Emergency Preparedness Resources
Emergency Preparation and Evacuation Checklist
Home Protection Tips for Existing Structures
Retrofitting for Fire Resistance:
Home Insurance
Claims Process and What to Expect
A Call to Rebuild Better
As we look toward the long process of clean up and rebuilding, it is essential to do so with resilience in mind. Homes and structures MUST be designed and built to withstand not only the threat of wildfires but also the growing challenges posed by climate change. Thoughtful planning, modern materials, and innovative solutions can ensure that your rebuilt home is safer, stronger, and better equipped for the future.
Design Standards for a Fire-Resistive Home
Time to ditch the old ways and rebuild better
Here to Help
As an architect and a Safety Evaluator with the CAL OES Safety Assessment Program, I am committed to supporting you in any way I can. Whether you need advice on rebuilding, resources for future proofing your existing home, or assistance navigating design and construction process, I am here for you. Together, we can create homes and spaces that are not only rebuilt but reimagined for a more resilient future.
Please do not hesitate to reach out. My goal is to provide compassionate, practical, and forward-thinking support to help you rebuild your life and home.
Finding Shelter and Assistance
Red Cross Shelter Locator and LA County Resources
Rebuilding Stronger, Together
Southern California is a place of beauty, resilience, and community. While the road to recovery may be long, it is one we will walk together. Let us honor what was lost by building something that reflects the strength and spirit of this incredible region.
Stay safe, stay strong, and please know that help is available.
ANNOUNCING REBUILD BETTER TOGETHER
JANUARY 12 2025
United in Purpose - Together, we can achieve more than we ever could alone.
We are a collective of dedicated architects, designers, builders, engineers, craftsmen, and passionate allies driven by a shared mission: to rebuild communities with fairness, compassion, and resilience.
Born from the urgent need to support those affected by disaster, we believe that rebuilding is more than restoring structures—it’s about restoring lives, hope, and stability. Our coalition brings together diverse expertise to design and construct safer, stronger, and more sustainable homes that can withstand future challenges.
Guided by integrity and a deep sense of responsibility, we are committed to making the rebuilding process fair, humane, and supportive for every individual and family. This is a movement powered by heart, not profit.
Together, we are redefining what it means to rebuild—creating not just homes, but lasting foundations for stronger, more resilient communities.