Reflections From Our New Orleans Dine Around: Conversations, Community, and the Realities of Disaster Recovery

Editor's Note: Ericia Henry joined The Patterson Foundation as its tenth Fellow in June 2024 after earning her Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. During her studies, she also completed certificates in Nonprofit Management through the O’Neill School and Fund Raising Management through The Fund Raising School. As a first-generation college student, Ericia understands firsthand the power of opportunity and encouragement—values that now drive her commitment to fostering leadership and educational development for others.

 

One of my favorite parts of hosting a Dine Around is finally getting to meet everyone in person after they RSVP. There’s something special about watching a room filled with people who bring gratitude, grace, and a wealth of knowledge and encouragement. Each guest shows up with lived experiences that enrich the conversation far beyond the agenda.

This year, Michael Corley and I attended the Philanthropy Southeast Conference in New Orleans, LA, and on the third evening, we hosted a Dine Around that brought together attendees from New York to local community leaders in Florida. Nicole Benham, Vice President of Strategy and Innovation at the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, led us in a robust discussion.

What stood out most was how deeply personal and emotional the conversation became for many in the room. Our question of the day touched on the real-life impacts of disasters, stories of hurricanes, the loss of homes, and even the loss of loved ones. It was a reminder that disaster recovery is more than just a technical process.

Defining Disaster Through a Real Lens
One powerful definition shared during the conversation was: A disaster is what happens when hazards meet vulnerability. This framing helped ground our discussion in reality. Hazards themselves, like storms, wildfires, and floods, aren’t automatically disasters. It’s the vulnerabilities communities face that turn them into life-changing events.

Key Insights From the Conversation
Several themes emerged from our guests’ insights and Nicole Behnam’s expertise:

1. Businesses Struggle After Disasters
   Within three years of a natural disaster, many businesses fail. This is not due to lack of effort, but due to inadequate preparation and limited support. Recovery requires long-term, layered assistance.
   
   
2. Cash Is King
   A message that was reiterated: don’t send stuff, send money.
   Financial contributions allow communities and organizations to respond quickly and address real needs, not assumed ones. Cash accelerates recovery in ways donated items rarely can.
   
   
3. Disaster Case Management Needs Funding
   This area is consistently underfunded, yet incredibly important. Disaster case managers understand FEMA forms, help families navigate complex systems, and ensure individuals receive the resources they need. Without them, recovery work becomes fragmented and overwhelming.
   
   
4. Flexible, Long-Term Funds Make the Difference
   Recovery is a long process, and flexible funding ensures communities can adapt as needs evolve. Quick dollars matter, but long-term dollars are often what sustain real rebuilding.
   
   
5. Local News Matters
   Local media play a crucial role in informing residents before, during, and after disasters. They are often the first to understand what is really happening on the ground.
   
   
6. Support COADs and BOADs
   Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COADs) and Business Organizations Active in Disaster (BOADs) provide coordination, resources, and connective tissue that strengthen recovery efforts. Supporting them strengthens entire communities.
   
   
7. Have Both Internal and External Disaster Plans
   Organizations need prepared plans, not just for how they will support the community, but also how they will operate and care for their own teams during crises.

This Dine Around reminded me of why these conversations matter so much. When people gather to share experiences, ask honest questions, and learn from each other, the path toward equitable recovery becomes clearer. I left the evening inspired and grateful for every voice at the table.