A year ago this month, our region faced a storm none of us were prepared for. Overnight, we found ourselves fundraising under unimaginable circumstances. Special events were canceled, urgent needs multiplied, and our carefully planned calendars were suddenly irrelevant.
Helene disrupted everything. Yet looking back, we know how we moved forward: together. Donors stepped up. Volunteers showed up. And nonprofits bent over backwards to support the recovery.
Here are some lessons we learned along the way:
1. Trust is the foundation
The gifts that sustained us came because relationships had already been built. Donors knew our mission, believed in our work, and trusted us before the disaster hit. When we asked for help, they didn’t hesitate. Consistent stewardship and transparent communication before a crisis are what unlock generosity during a crisis. And while large gifts covered major costs, it was the many $25 and $50 donations that reminded us recovery is always a joint community effort.
2. Flexibility fuels response
Unrestricted giving proved invaluable. Priorities shifted by the hour, and being able to direct funds where they were most urgently needed kept recovery moving. As fundraisers, we must continue educating donors and grantors about why flexible funding is essential.
3. Local giving sustains recovery
Local residents, small businesses, and community partners remained with us long after the national news headlines moved on. We should continue to remind supporters that giving close to home creates the strongest safety net, strengthening the very networks that make recovery possible.
4. Time is powerful
Volunteers became the backbone of recovery. They cleared debris, kept programs running, and gave staff the bandwidth to focus on critical needs. Volunteers reminded us that their service is a gift and incredibly valuable.
As we mark this one-year milestone, I know many nonprofits feel deep gratitude for our donors and volunteers. But I also want to make sure you know how grateful this community is for YOU! Thank you for your sacrifice this past year. We see you. Your work mattered. Your leadership mattered. And after the storm, this community is stronger because of you.
Kate Frost
President, Association of Fundraising Professionals – WNC Chapter
