This article is part of the ’24-’25 Donor Yearbook & Annual Report. Click here to download the full report (PDF).
This past year, the Foundation’s Disaster Response & Resilience Fund deployed over $600,000 to support 24 organizations across the region. The majority of these funds were directed toward recovery and resilience efforts.
According to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, “Every $1 invested in preparedness and resilience can save up to $13 in economic impact and disaster recovery costs.” Reflecting this principle, grants funded a range of preparedness initiatives, including:
- Emergency fire and medical equipment
- Community resilience centers
- Emergency food systems
- Disaster and emergency preparedness training
A notable previous recipient, the Hayfork Fire Protection District (Hayfork FPD), received $24,000 in 2024 to upgrade its digital communications system. These enhancements improved digital compliance, expanded range, and increased compatibility with\ other fire response agencies. The new system proved valuable when Hayfork FPD was deployed to the Palisades Fire during the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires.
“The communications upgrade, along with other changes in our department, have allowed us to integrate with large and small agencies alike and become a valuable yet small piece of the puzzle during events such as Palisades,” says Hayfork FPD Chief Leroy Washawer. “The ability to have up-to-date, functional communications on such a dynamic and severe incident cannot be overstated.”
The fund supports the region during current and future disasters, including public health emergencies, fires, earthquakes, flooding, and other natural disasters. Grants are made to nonprofit agencies, public benefit organizations, charitable organizations, and groups with qualified fiscal sponsors.