Reflecting on 5 years at CDP with eyes toward what’s next

Five years ago, I stepped into my role at the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) with a deep commitment to advancing more strategic, equitable and impactful disaster giving. I was drawn to CDP’s unique mission, which recognizes philanthropy’s critical role in immediate disaster response and long-term recovery and preparedness. Looking back, I am both humbled and inspired by the journey we have taken together.

In these five years, the world has experienced unprecedented challenges. From the COVID-19 pandemic to escalating climate-related disasters, from humanitarian crises spurred by conflict to the growing recognition of the systemic inequities that disasters exacerbate, CDP has stood at the forefront, helping funders navigate complexity with intentionality. We have worked to shift philanthropy from reactive to proactive, ensuring that disaster-affected communities, especially those often overlooked, receive the sustained support they need to recover and thrive.

Our collective impact is a testament to the power of partnership and learning. Through our research and education initiatives, direct philanthropic support and strategic funding opportunities, CDP has mobilized hundreds of millions of dollars, ensuring resources reach communities effectively and equitably. We have deepened our commitment to localization, amplifying the leadership of those closest to the crises. We have also begun to reframe the narrative around disaster philanthropy, demonstrating that it goes beyond reactive charity to encompass socio-economic development, justice and systems change.

Of course, none of this happens in isolation. The dedicated, passionate, mission-driven CDP team has been at the heart of this progress. I am endlessly grateful for the colleagues who challenge, inspire and push us to be better every day. Our partners—funders, nonprofits, community leaders and fellow advocates—have been integral in shaping this journey, and I deeply appreciate their trust and collaboration.

What’s next

As I reflect on these past five years, I recognize that our work is far from complete. The challenges ahead are complex, but they are not insurmountable. With a commitment to learning, adaptation and action, CDP will continue to drive forward, ensuring that disaster philanthropy is more generous and more just.  

2025 has proven to be a year of change, and we’re only in the first quarter. With major changes to federal funding and foreign aid already creating ripple effects for disaster-affected communities, we know that our work is as essential as ever. Looking forward, CDP will continue to be innovative and flexible both in our work and how we partner and support our partners committed to equitable disaster recovery.

We are evolving our expert advisory services to meet the needs of philanthropic funders as they navigate a high level of demand amid a changing funding environment. Additionally, we’re exploring how we can better build relationships and connections to grow our collective impact and strengthen communities before a disaster strikes. And we’re deepening our research to determine how to most effectively guide philanthropy to achieve impact. 

Our goals for growth and evolution as an organization are ambitious because we believe in the transformational power of philanthropy and the need for more effective investment in equitable disaster recovery. Thank you for being a part of this journey, and here’s to the next five years and beyond.