How can disaster philanthropy create recovery for all and build community resilience?
In this episode of Guide to Good, Brandolon Barnett sits down with Patty McIlreavy, CEO and President of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP). Together, they explore a more expansive view of disaster philanthropy that goes beyond immediate relief to focus on long-term recovery and community-led solutions. Patty shares insights on the interconnectedness of disasters with other social issues, the importance of preparedness, and how donors can support more equitable approaches to recovery. Learn about the changing landscape of disaster funding and how every person can play a meaningful role in helping communities not just survive but thrive after disaster.
[00:00 - 05:05] Rethinking Disaster Response
* CDP guides donors toward equitable recovery after disasters
* Disasters are an "experiential equalizer" but impact communities differently
* Communities should lead their own recovery processes
[05:06 - 12:14] Every Donor is a Disaster Donor
* Disasters = events meeting vulnerabilities
* Philanthropy addressing root vulnerabilities helps prevent disaster impacts
* Pre-disaster planning enables more effective response
[12:15 - 21:22] Community-Led Recovery Solutions
* Philanthropy alone cannot solve all problems
* Centering communities rather than donor priorities is essential
* Federal funding gaps create challenges but also opportunities for innovation
[21:23 - 27:41] Models for Effective Disaster Philanthropy
* Truist Foundation's $21M North Carolina hurricane recovery commitment
* Focus on long-term needs: housing, business loans, disaster case management
* Communities need sustained support to thrive, not just survive
[27:42 - 34:34] The Future of Disaster Support
* Shift toward locally-led response and recovery
* Direct cash assistance gives survivors dignity and choice
* Need to change narratives that view survivors as "passive recipients"
[34:35 - 39:00] Practical Steps for Donors
* Practice self-reflection about giving motivations and assumptions
* Listen to communities rather than prescribing solutions
* Recognize systemic factors behind vulnerabilities
Connect with Patty!
Website: https://disasterphilanthropy.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/center-for-disaster-philanthropy/
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Quotes:
*"No one will fix all that ails this world. This is much too big an ask to put on philanthropy, much less government. It takes all of us together." - Patty McIlreavy*
*"Listening to the needs of the people you hope to serve is always going to lead to a better solution." - Brandolon Barnett*