Disasters bring out the best in people. Donations to charities surge as television coverage increases. Yet we know from experience that both coordination and effective spending of donor dollars is a particular challenge, not just while the disaster is underway, but also in the long-term, as rebuilding begins. As families and communities begin to clean up and consider how long their power will be out, private philanthropists turn their attention to the question, “How can I help?”

  • Take the long view: Even while focusing on immediate needs, remember that it will take some time for the full range of needs to emerge.
  • Recognize that there are places private philanthropy can help that government agencies might not.
  • All funders are disaster philanthropists
  • Support the sharing of best practices
  • Connect with other funders
  • Look to past disasters for guidance
  • Ask the experts

Read the full article on disaster giving by Center for Disaster Philanthropy.