March 14, 2011

Over the years, the membership of ULI has learned much from our colleagues in Japan about community building defined in terms of beauty, order, grace and dignity. Now, the devastating loss of life and vast property destruction resulting from the earthquake and tsunami in Japan is almost impossible for most of us to comprehend. Our thoughts and prayers go out to our ULI Japan members, their families, and all the people of this great nation.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, we have heard from ULI staff members Mike Owen and Michael Deininger, who sent this update: “Japan's Tohoku region has borne the brunt, but the effects of the historic earthquake of Friday, March 11, have been felt throughout this entire island nation. Thousands of people no longer have homes - or towns - to return to. Family members remain separated from each other. Rescue efforts, while valiant, cannot possibly reach everyone hungry or stranded. Since the initial shocks, more than 100 aftershocks - some rather significant - have been recorded. Certain areas have been so totally devastated as to render them inaccessible to rescue teams.”

ULI can play an important role in assisting with recovery aid. We encourage you to give generously to the organizations providing this assistance by visiting http://www.charitynavigator.org. There, you will find a list of agencies involved in first response efforts, including international relief and development.

Japan is an integral part of ULI’s global network, and our ULI Japan members have an enviable history of excellence in contributions to the built environment. Ultimately, there will be a massive rebuilding effort that will take place in the months and years to come. At the appropriate time, when the focus turns from relief to rebuilding, ULI will be ready to help with strategic suggestions on long-term recovery. Until then, we encourage you to support those organizations that are best able to provide immediate aid.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Devon Dow