When disasters strike, people often turn to large institutions for help. However, lean funders can also play a crucial role. With strong community ties and the flexibility to move quickly, they can help meet urgent needs that larger systems might miss or take longer to address.
Some foundations respond right away with emergency support. Others get involved later, helping with long-term recovery. And some focus on preparedness, working to strengthen communities before a crisis happens.
Whatever the approach, it helps to have a clear roadmap. This blog explores the Four Cs of Disaster Grantmaking: Connect, Collaborate, Consider, and Communicate, along with key legal considerations, policy guidance, and practical tips. Whether your focus is urgent relief or long-term rebuilding, thoughtful planning can help you respond with clarity and compassion.
1 | Connect: Lean on Local Knowledge
Local organizations and networks know the terrain, literally and figuratively. Check in with:
- Regional grantmaker associations
- Community-based nonprofits and U.S.–based international aid groups
- Government agencies and first responders
Their real-time insights will steer your dollars to the most pressing needs.
2 | Collaborate: Combine Efforts for Greater Impact
Coordination prevents overlap and amplifies results. Partner with:
- Fellow funders—foundations, giving circles, corporate donors
- Local nonprofits, faith communities, and advocacy groups
- Larger foundations or regional affinity networks
- Municipal, state, or federal relief agencies
Shared information and pooled resources can stretch every grant further.
3 | Consider: Relief and Recovery
Emergency aid is vital, but long-term rebuilding often determines whether a community truly rebounds. Think about grants for:
- Essentials—food, clothing, shelter
- Physical and mental health care
- Rebuilding infrastructure (schools, clinics, housing)
- Strengthening local nonprofits so they’re better prepared next time
Balancing “now” with “next” helps communities emerge stronger.
4 | Communicate: Stay Engaged and Share Learning
Keep the conversation going during and after the crisis.
- Check in with grantees as needs evolve
- Report your outcomes to peers (successes and setbacks)
- Document lessons learned to refine your future response
Transparency benefits both your foundation and the sector at large.
Legal Basics for Disaster Giving
When giving during a disaster, it’s important to understand a few legal basics.
| If you’re funding… | Key points to remember |
|---|---|
| U.S. nonprofits | Easiest route. Ensure the charity’s 501(c)(3) status is current. Private foundations may also fund government entities for charitable purposes. |
| International efforts | Simplest path is a U.S.–based intermediary with on-the-ground partners. Direct grants to foreign NGOs require extra due diligence or an equivalency determination. |
| Individuals | Permissible under strict IRS guidelines: aid must target a “charitable class,” follow objective criteria, and be thoroughly documented. Seek legal counsel first. |
Why Have a Disaster and Emergency Response Policy?
A flexible disaster response policy helps your foundation act quickly, thoughtfully, and in line with your values when a crisis occurs. It doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should cover a few key elements to guide your decision-making.
What to Include in Your Policy
| Policy Element | Questions to Consider |
|---|---|
| Mission Alignment | Will your disaster giving align with your foundation’s mission? Example: An education funder might support replacing school supplies after a hurricane. |
| Type of Support | Will you focus on relief, recovery, prevention, or a mix? Will your response vary by disaster type or location? |
| Geographic Focus & Recipients | Will you fund locally, nationally, or internationally? Will you support nonprofits, intermediaries, or individuals? If international, will you use U.S.–based intermediaries or give directly to foreign organizations? |
| Funding Levels | Will you set aside funds annually for disaster response, or adjust giving as needed? |
| Communication | How will you publicly share your disaster grantmaking priorities, such as on your website or in guidelines? |
| Partnerships | Are there funders, nonprofits, or aid organizations you could partner with in advance? |
| Due Diligence & Reporting | How will you adapt your grantmaking process during emergencies, especially when grantees may have limited capacity? |
| Sharing Lessons Learned | How will you document and share what worked and what didn’t to improve your response and help others? |
Even a short, flexible policy can improve your ability to respond quickly and effectively. Planning ahead means you’re not starting from scratch when the next crisis strikes.
Act Swiftly, Plan Thoughtfully
Disasters will continue to test communities in unexpected ways, but lean funders are well equipped to respond with speed, flexibility, and local knowledge. Whether you focus on urgent relief, long-term recovery, or community preparedness, your grantmaking can make a real difference. By applying the Four Cs and having a flexible plan in place, you can give with confidence when it’s needed most.
Connect With Your Peers at the Annual Conference
Ready to learn, connect, and be inspired? Our 2025 Annual Conference brings together lean funders from across the country to share ideas and grow their impact. Explore the full conference agenda and additional information.