Co-Founder | Our Front Porch
After receiving an undergraduate degree in Biosystems Engineering, Heather spent time in Africa with the Peace Corps. She then received a Masters in Architecture and Urban Design from the University of Colorado. Heather has worked as an Architect for over 15 years in both the private and public sector, including FEMA, with a focus on design, construction, project management and disaster mitigation. Her projects have ranged from small residential remodels to large scale neighborhood master planning. In 2013, Heather collaborated with a social worker to start Our Front Porch, a Denver-based nonprofit that helps Colorado home fire survivors navigate the ups and downs of the recovery journey so they don’t have to go it alone. Our Front Porch provides disaster case management, therapy and mental health support, and guidance on next steps, insurance claims, and the rebuilding process. They also have an emergency housing program where they provide short-term, affordable, and fully furnished rentals specifically to home fire survivors. Heather currently splits her time between being the COO of Our Front Porch and her private architecture practice in Key West, Florida.
Courses
Ensuring Equitable Post-Disaster Outcomes
Join us for a thought-provoking session about improving equitable outcomes through disaster mitigation and preparedness. During this session, we will shine a light on the systemic inequities that hinder equitable preparedness and contribute to disparities in response and recovery outcomes.
Architects play a pivotal role in addressing the needs of communities through community engagement and thoughtful design. We will explore how architects can contribute to enhancing equitable outcomes by actively involving community members, considering their unique perspectives and needs, and designing resilient and inclusive spaces. Additionally, architects can serve as advocates for better policies that prioritize equity in disaster mitigation and preparedness efforts.
To inspire and inform, we will showcase compelling case studies of places that are making strides in providing better outcomes through community preparedness. Don't miss this opportunity to engage in a dynamic discussion on inequities in disaster preparedness and how we can work towards more equitable outcomes.
To explore more resources on how to helping communities before and after disasters, visit aia.org/disaster.
This session was recorded live on September 21, 2023.