Where do root causes end and disasters begin? Many grantmakers and major donors have demonstrated that not only can they be generous in a crisis, but they can lead others by showing how to help as well.

Philanthropy’s substantial response to the pandemic is unique in disaster-related giving as institutional funders and major donors have not traditionally seen a central role for themselves in responding to disasters. More focused on the long view of addressing the root causes of society’s ills, many in philanthropy often defer to government agencies, such as FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency, USA), to both tackle the immediate suffering caused by disasters and support the long path to recovery that follows (which most often occurs out of the spotlight).

We need to fund programs that lessen the impact of natural hazards and help affected people recover and build back better. For example, if your organization supports education, in a post-hurricane environment you might look beyond rebuilding the brick and mortar of a school and seek to address the achievement gap. If you are focused on housing issues, you might address mortgage redlining and recognize that homes are often a critical component of safe and healthy learning environments for children.

Start with localization and build from there

Disaster philanthropy isn’t always easy, but it starts with trusting those closest to the crisis to guide your approach.

The pandemic is an experiential equalizer. We all now know how it feels when a disaster enters our home, our family, and our community — uninvited and unwanted. Even our capacity to manage the disaster is a shared experience. It is no different whether the hazard is an illness, fire, wind, or rain — it will affect everyone individually.

There has never been a greater need for philanthropy to refresh its image of itself and take on a civic responsibility to aid the country and the world towards a common prosperous future. With that goal, here are some tips on how we can be most impactful in ensuring a vibrant and thriving future for all:

• Practice courageous leadership.
• Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
• Be flexible

Patricia McIlreavy adds, to my peers in the sector, I call on you to embrace your inner disaster philanthropist. As Booker T. Washington said, “If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.” There is no better time to lend a hand then when people are in the greatest need.

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Written by Patricia McIlreavy
Image: CEP
Publication date: October 1, 2020 & October 7, 2021

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