The AAA-ICDR Foundation and AAA are committed to providing support to those affected by the wildfires in the greater Los Angeles area. Both are actively engaged in providing meaningful assistance to aid in the recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Supporting Los Angeles Nonprofits Through the AAA-ICDR Foundation®

The American Arbitration Association-International Centre for Dispute Resolution Foundation® (AAA-ICDR Foundation) has already begun working with its grant partner, the Western Justice Center (WJC), located in Pasadena, California. Through a gift from the AAA-ICDR Foundation, the WJC is providing essential support to nonprofits and community organizations displaced by the fires, and the AAA has provided chargers, blankets and first aid kits to the WJC for distribution to those in need.

In addition, the WJC is curating restorative practice-based tools and resources for principals, educators and parents to help young people process the emotional and social impact of this natural disaster. These materials will be available on the WJC’s Eaton Fire Resources webpage.

The AAA-ICDR Foundation also provided a contribution to the National Association for Community Mediators. Funds will be distributed to five Los Angeles area community mediation centers (Peace in Education, Loyola Center for Conflict Resolution, Center for Conflict Resolution, Conflict Resolution – Ventura County and Groundswell), with NAFCM acting as the financial conduit. This grant will help these organizations to respond to urgent needs to provide conflict resolution services to communities as well as court referrals that concern housing, insurance, employment and intrapersonal disputes.

AAA Response to LA Wildfire

As rebuilding begins, countless disputes will need resolution. Efficient, cost-effective, and humane dispute resolution is crucial to restoring lives and livelihoods. As the largest not-for-profit ADR provider, the AAA is ready to assist impacted communities, businesses, and organizations. Through our Mass Claims Disaster Programs, we have successfully used mediation in past crises, reinforcing our commitment to collaboration and accessibility in times of need.

Mobilizing Pro Bono Panelists

The AAA is surveying its panelists to identify mediators and arbitrators willing to serve at no cost, allowing those affected by the wildfires to access expert arbitration and mediation services without financial barriers.

Hardship Waivers for Individuals and Small Businesses 

The AAA offers hardship waivers for its administrative fees to individuals and small businesses in need, and we realize these waivers will be especially meaningful in light of the financial strain that this disaster has imposed. These waivers can be accessed via the following resources:

• California-Specific Hardship Waivers (California Specific)
• Hardship Waivers for Individuals
• Hardship Waivers for Small Businesses

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the Los Angeles wildfires, including our colleagues and ADR professionals in the region. The AAA® remains committed to supporting the community, matching staff donations, and providing meaningful assistance during recovery.

The AAA-ICDR Foundation and AAA will continue to look for ways to partner with local officials and organizations to aid in recovery relief efforts in the months to come.