Not Business as Usual

The economy has changed radically throughout the world in the last few months. The impact has been strongly felt in our design community in New York City. Projects have been put on hold or stopped altogether, new commissions are not readily forthcoming. Firms have begun, in turn, to downsize. Many of our colleagues are losing their jobs. Many young professionals are not even being hired. And of course, our bills are not being quickly paid. This Wednesday, December 17, 2008 the Chapter will launch a Wednesday lunchtime open forum to discuss what we as architectural professionals can do. It will be the beginning of a series of dialogues and programs which will address how we can create new opportunities for professional employment and community service. It will address the logistical and social needs of the 'unhired and recently laid off' as well as the 'suddenly-smaller firm'. It will also explore different avenues of alternate employment through community service such as a 'Design Corps' modeled on the WPA or design education. Organized by: An initiative of the AIA New York Chapter and Center for Architecture Foundation to use the economic downturn as a tool for creative response and support. Location: Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place (Directions) Price: Free A light lunch will be available Contact: [email protected] More Info: Suzanne Mecs RSVP HERE: http://aiany.org/calendar/rsvp.php?id=1007586