FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Ravyn Smith
775-238-3590
Local Organizations Collaborate to Address Needs in Davis Creek Fire
Reno, NV, September 26, 2024 – Partnership is always important, and it proved critical in supporting those affected during the Davis Creek Fire. As the fire made its way through Washoe County, United Way of Northern Nevada and Sierra (UWNNS), Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation, and the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada (CFNN) quickly came together, bringing a unique collaboration of experience, resources, and funding.
With the State of Emergency Declaration, UWNNS took the lead to rapidly stand up an Emergency Assistance Fund. In parallel, Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation and Northern Nevada Community Foundation quickly gathered and disseminated information to bring awareness to local resources and raise emergency funding. With their established relationships with local nonprofits and a community of donors, community foundations are a valued resource in times of crisis.
“We have a unique seat as a bridge connecting people who care with the causes they care about, and as the cloud of smoke rose above our community, we began to hear almost immediately from community partners and fundholders interested in supporting relief efforts,” said Eaton Dunkelberger, President and CEO at CFNN. “Partnering with the United Way to share the Emergency Assistance Fund provided a valuable resource to direct that generosity.”
The Emergency Assistance Fund was created to provide financial assistance to response, relief, and recovery efforts. Funds will be distributed to local nonprofits and government-recognized entities leading relief efforts to support those directly impacted by the fire. During this time of crisis, UWNNS is forgoing all administrative fees associated with processing donations, ensuring that 100% of the contributions go directly to supporting victims and recovery efforts.
“As soon as we became aware of the Emergency Assistance Fund, we informed our donors and were so grateful for their swift and generous response,” said Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation CEO, Claudia Andersen. “Tahoe residents live in risk of wildfire and are very sensitive to its threat. Our donors know how fire can impact a community and were moved to help our neighbors and friends.”
Ravyn Smith, Senior Vice President, Marketing & Development at UWNNS, expressed gratitude for the donation:
“Collaboration between our organizations and timely donations allows us to directly support local organizations on the frontlines of this disaster. This partnership exemplifies how community foundations can make an immediate difference in moments of crisis, ensuring those in need receive help as quickly as possible.”
To learn more about the fund and apply for grant funds please visit: uwnns.org/eafgrant
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About Community Foundation of Northern Nevada
Community Foundation of Northern Nevada works to strengthen our community through philanthropy and leadership by connecting people who care with causes that matter. We are dedicated to enhancing the greater good by nurturing philanthropy and serving as a steadfast charitable resource, convener, and hub for generous giving.
About Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation
Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation is dedicated to cultivating community philanthropy. Parasol connects donors to causes that matter most to them, helping nonprofit organizations achieve their charitable goals, positively impacting the quality of life and supporting the people and places of Tahoe.
About United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra
United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra is dedicated to improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities. We focus on early childhood literacy, education, and community support to create lasting change in the lives of individuals and families.