Philanthropy's Response to 2020 Iowa Derecho

OVERVIEW

Communities across the Midwest and primarily in Iowa are reeling from a range of catastrophic events caused by a Derecho that hit the area on August 10, 2020. Devastating crops and farmland, and leaving thousands without power for weeks, many in Iowa are still reeling from the significant damage, causing further complications in trying to reopen businesses and schools in the COVID-19 pandemic.

As updates about the impact of this disaster is known as well as the opportunity to support long-term recovery in affected communities becomes available, this page will be regularly updated with more resources and information surrounding response and recovery.

RESOURCES

• Webinars: The Council remains in partnership with the Center for Disaster Philanthropy and as funding needs become more clear we will provide more information on virtual learning opportunities. In April, we hosted a joint webinar: Listening and Learning from Nonprofit Partners During Disasters. This discussion provides insight as to how funders can provide support during a disaster.
• Council Disaster Grantmaking: Foundations can access our Disaster Grantmaking Resources to understand how to effectively respond to a disaster.

RESPONSE FUNDS

For a comprehensive list of resources and ways to support Iowa in its recovery, please visit the guide provided by our partners, Iowa Council of Foundations. As various local, state and regional community foundations and philanthropic institutions establish response funds for disaster recovery, we will keep this information up to date.

PARTNERS

• The Center for Disaster Philanthropy is the Council's recommended partner for those needing support in mobilizing a philanthropic response to disasters. For more information, see their Midwest Derecho Resource Page.
• FEMA is a critical federal partner of the Council that often relies on community foundations and place-based funders before, during, and after a disaster hits. Visit FEMA's Iowa Severe Storms page to apply for assistance or for addiitonal news and information. The Council's Senior Advisor for Public Policy and Partnerships, Stephanie Powers, remains a vital resource and connection between communities and FEMA.