Giving Back Beyond Design: Liollio Volunteers for Riverbank Cleanup at AIA South Atlantic Region ASPIRE Conference
Mez Joseph
At Liollio Architecture, we believe our responsibility to the communities we serve extends far beyond the buildings we design. During this year’s AIA South Atlantic Region ASPIRE Conference in Asheville, North Carolina, members of the Liollio team had the opportunity to put that belief into action by participating in the Riverbank Cleanup organized through AIA’s Committee on the Environment (COTE).
The cleanup effort was part of a larger regional initiative led by COTE South Carolina and neighboring COTE chapters, bringing together architects, designers, and industry professionals with a shared commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Volunteers spent the morning working along Asheville’s waterways, helping remove debris, restore natural habitats, and contribute to the ongoing recovery and preservation of these important community resources.
The experience served as a powerful reminder that sustainable design is not only achieved through thoughtful architecture, resilient planning, and responsible material choices. It is also demonstrated through direct action, service, and community engagement. By dedicating a few hours of their time, participants were able to make an immediate and visible impact while connecting with colleagues who share a passion for protecting the places we live, work, and enjoy.
The volunteer event also supported MountainTrue, a nonprofit organization dedicated to championing resilient forests, clean waters, and healthy communities throughout Western North Carolina. Following the cleanup, conference attendees and community members gathered at The Whale’s South Slope location for a networking happy hour, where additional donations and proceeds from sales helped further support MountainTrue’s mission.
We are proud to have been part of a team that contributed its time and energy to this meaningful effort. Opportunities like these remind us that creating a more sustainable and resilient future requires both thoughtful design and active community engagement. We extend our appreciation to the organizers, volunteers, and partners who helped make the event a success and look forward to continuing to support initiatives that strengthen and sustain our communities.