We have compiled a list of funds and organizations mobilized to help respond to COVID-19. It will be updated regularly so check back often for the latest. If a resource is missing and you would like us to include it, please e-mail Olivia (at) philagiving (dot) com.
More generally, below are other resources and ways to be involved. And it goes without saying: PLEASE follow recommendations by the CDC and public health officials: practice social distancing to the fullest extent you can and wash your hands thoroughly and regularly.
Don’t slow your giving. COVID-19 has ushered in a drop in the stock market and overall volatility. Financial advisors caution against panicking, but as advisors in philanthropy, we are also counseling not to pull back on your giving, despite the losses. While the fear is understandable, we also encourage you to step up and offer extra support to struggling charities when and where needed. An article in The Chronicle of Philanthropy offers six ways to support your favorite organizations during this crisis.
Dip into that DAF. Do you have a donor advised fund or a family foundation flush with cash just waiting for the right moment to be deployed? Now’s the time! Talk to friends, family, or us at Phīla about where your money can best be used.
Donate blood. The American Red Cross is urging healthy individuals to donate blood as soon as possible in order to prevent any potential shortages as concerns over COVID-19 rise. According to their press release, blood centers across the country have seen sharp declines in donations as citizens are worried that it may pose a risk to their health. It does not.
Support the artists and makers in your community. Theaters, galleries, and public events are being closed or postponed, and that means the artists and performers are not being paid. For ways to support this sector, visit Artist Trust and Creative Capital for a list of resources for artists, arts philanthropists, and arts professionals.
Remember people with disabilities when making provisions for dealing with COVID-19. Forbes has a helpful article of Five Things to Know About Coronavirus and People with Disabilities.
Support small businesses. As more of us are required to stay home, owners of small business are reeling. Check out The Intentionalist for innovative ways to show your support for the businesses that are the backbones of our communities.
Call out racism when you see it. Incidents of anti-Asian racial discrimination are being seen across the country, from racist bullying to plummeting sales at Chinatown districts and Asian-operated businesses. Resist that narrative and be a leader.
Seek out a mental health professional if anxiety is affecting your daily activities. You’re not the only one experiencing stress and worry because of this crisis. It’s OK to be out of sorts. However, if methods of coping are not helping and you are beginning to feel you are in crisis, contact a national crisis support center immediately for help.
Given the level of disruption to businesses and charitable organizations, this is the moment for our better angels to prevail and contribute in any way we can. We are all in this together. Public safety requires some to be on the front lines putting themselves and their families at risk. Others of us can be behind the scenes, supporting health workers, organizing or funding the effort to keep our communities functioning. Everyone is needed and everyone has a place. Find your place and get to work. If not now, when?