From the President
Erica Hunt

We’re in a season of storms ---some weather-related, others political and financial--- with a hotly contested historic election and a bank crisis that threatens to spread.  In this season, we observe also the anniversary of the 2005 storm season, and in particular, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, that reminded many of us that as much as you can prepare for calamity, we depend on community—and government—to get to the other side of catastrophe. 

The Twenty-First Century Foundation took quick action after the storms of 2005 and once again, was quick to respond following Gustav, reallocating existing grant funds to help fulfill short term needs for evacuation related expenses.  In addition, the program department is revising the current fall proposal submission deadline to accommodate Gulf Coast grantees. Our Hurricane Katrina Recovery Fund has now disbursed over $3 million through 91 grants to 108 organizations. All of our efforts are designed to help create a just and equitable recovery for the people New Orleans and beyond.

We are proud of what we have been able to accomplish so far, but we have no illusions. There are many challenges ahead with even more hard work to come, and yet we remain steadfastly optimistic. The reasons for this are simple: 1) the strength and resilience of the people of the Gulf Coast; and 2) the dedication shown by you, our donors, friends, and allies. The next step in the evolution of our efforts is the establishment of the Gulf Coast Fellowship for Community Transformation, which is designed to support those who have chosen to make a real difference in the lives of those who need a helping hand, not a handout.

The work of the Twenty-First Century Foundation in the Gulf Coast is by no means complete.  We are fully committed to the people of the region, to the leaders who have emerged from the near ruins and neglect of their homes.  Towards that end, we are developing a strategic plan to guide our efforts for a minimum of five more years.  The goal is to support a pipeline of leaders and dynamic and powerful organizations to give voice to the rebuilding of communities in the Gulf.  This is our vision; won’t you join us?