Sometimes it’s easy to feel helpless after watching communities experience devastation. It can also be overwhelming to find the best way to help from afar. An immediate thought is to send items – food, clothes, blankets, etc. However, in the wake of any disaster the most effective way to help is by donating money because the needs of a community change constantly as they try to recover.
Living in a digital world makes it very convenient for donors to click a link, make an online donation, and continue on with their day. But just like any other online transaction, it’s imperative to vet the source before sending money so you know the donation reaches those who need it most.
One solution to your desire to donate reliably is to always send your donation to a community foundation. A foundation’s role is to have the knowledge and relationships within the community it serves and to fill a community’s needs by bringing donors and nonprofits together. When giving to a community foundation, let them know how you want your donation dollars designated so they can be restricted and only used to support the efforts for which you intended it to benefit.
When disaster strikes, community foundations establish disaster relief funds so your donation can go directly to the communities affected. Below is a list of foundations in communities looking for your support.
- Greater Houston Community Foundation – Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund
- Community Foundation of Puerto Rico
- Miami Foundation – Hurricane Relief Fund
- Napa Valley Community Foundation
- Community Foundation Sonoma County – Resilience Fund
- Nevada Community Foundation – Las Vegas Victims’ Fund
Contact the Bartlesville Community Foundation to learn more about getting involved in your community. Together we can make a difference in the lives of others.
