We believe the phase, “disasters start and end locally,” to be true. Similarly, place-based, local nonprofits are the “first ones in and last ones out.” Funding which empowers communities to build local safety nets and resilience; strengthens the community-based providers guiding recovery; and lifts up initiatives developing or maintaining localized autonomy, is at the heart of this principle.

This principle emphasizes the  rebuilding of communities with future mitigation in mind, and rebuilding to reduce the impacts of future disasters and climate impacts. 

Rebuilding with the future in mind requires a look at the past - recognizing there were economic, social, and other institutional challenges prior to, and exacerbated or accelerated, by the Lahaina fires. 

This principle is a commitment to positively impact these “starting point” challenges too, acknowledging addressing the root issues will make the most impact and for generations to come.

This emphasizes a deep respect and connection to the land, recognizing its integral role in sustaining life and nurturing communities. It highlights the interconnectedness between people and land, promoting stewardship that centers and reinforces this relationship. 

While there are many ways this shows up in grantmaking, this also underscores the decision of participating funders to work in a connected, collaborative process. There is value in our collective impact and strength as we navigate these new pathways together.