Los Angeles, CA — The road to recovery after the Altadena wildfires has been long, and it has required extraordinary leadership from across the community. To recognize that service, the Boards of Directors of AIA|LA and ACLA are proud to present the inaugural Community Contribution Award,

honoring those who helped make architectural support more accessible during rebuilding.

Established in 2026 as a joint initiative of the American Institute of Architects Los Angeles (AIA|LA) and Architecture for Communities Los Angeles (ACLA), the Community Contribution Award honors an individual, organization, or firm whose work exemplifies architecture’s ability to improve lives,

strengthen communities, and advance the public good. The award celebrates those who demonstrate that the impact of architecture extends far beyond the built environment.

The inaugural Community Contribution Award is presented to:

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         Jessica Orlando, AIA,                                       Jodie Mendelson, AIA,                 

 and AIA Pasadena & Foothill Chapter

In recognition of extraordinary leadership, compassion, and service to the community following the devastating Altadena wildfires.

Through the creation and implementation of the Ask an Architect initiative, Jodie Mendelson and Jessica Orlando, together with the AIA Pasadena & Foothill Chapter, helped bring architectural expertise within reach to homeowners and communities navigating the complex process of recovery and rebuilding.

By mobilizing volunteer architects, fostering collaboration, and demonstrating the power of design in service of the public good, the initiative exemplified the highest ideals of the architectural profession. What began as an immediate response to a community in crisis quickly became a trusted resource for families

facing the challenges of rebuilding their homes and their lives.

The award recognizes not only two remarkable leaders, but an entire community of architects who stepped forward when their neighbors needed them most. Through the collective efforts of the AIA Pasadena & Foothill Chapter and hundreds of volunteer professionals, the initiative became a powerful example

of how architects can lead with generosity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to public service.

“Architecture has the power to transform lives, particularly in times of crisis,” said Yu-Ming Wei, AIA, President of ACLA. “The Ask an Architect initiative demonstrated what our profession is capable of when architects come together in service of their communities. Jessica, Jodie, and the AIA Pasadena & Foothill Chapter

remind us that our greatest contribution is not only the buildings we design, but the people we serve. Their leadership is an inspiration to our profession and a model for communities everywhere.”

The Community Contribution Award will be presented during the 2026 AIA|LA Design Awards Ceremony on October 27, 2026, celebrating excellence not only in design but also in architecture’s profound responsibility to serve society.

As AIA|LA and ACLA continue their shared mission of advancing architecture and empowering communities, the Community Contribution Award will stand as an annual recognition of those whose work reflects the public good and the transformative impact of design.

Sponsored by:  

About AIA|LA

The American Institute of Architects Los Angeles (AIA|LA) is one of the nation’s largest and most influential chapters of the American Institute of Architects, dedicated to advancing the value of architecture through advocacy, education, and community engagement. (aialosangeles.org)

About Architecture for Communities Los Angeles (ACLA)

Architecture for Communities Los Angeles (ACLA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit partner of AIA|LA, focused on expanding access to architecture education and design opportunities while inspiring people to value architecture in Los Angeles communities. (ac-la.org)

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