As the nation reflects on the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina this week, Governor Bobby Jindal and the nonprofit Volunteer USA Foundation have announced the establishment of the National Disaster Recovery Fund to benefit states and communities that suffer long-term losses from a natural disaster such as a hurricane, flood or tornado.
Governors from Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi are supporting the work of the Fund, as a way to supplement state and local relief efforts when a disaster does strike. The National Disaster Recovery Fund will operate specifically for the purpose of providing resources for long-term recovery — it will not take the place of immediate relief efforts already provided by existing organizations. Chairing the Fund is Bill Simon, president of Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and former Florida Governor Jeb Bush serves as honorary chair.
"As a resident of Florida, I know all too well the destruction and turmoil that follows major disasters," Bush said. "The chaos on lives and communities often lasts months and even years — long after insurance, government and immediate relief resources have been exhausted. That is the principle behind the National Disaster Recovery Fund — through national fundraising efforts we will work to rebuild lives in the challenging times that lie ahead."
The National Fund will provide long-standing support by working with state leaders and contracting with trusted nonprofits in local communities. These nonprofits will determine how and where long-term recovery dollars are needed most and engage volunteer and faith-based organizations skilled in the areas of rebuilding and recovery.
Key attributes of the Fund include:
The National Disaster Fund advisory board will provide oversight of the Fund and managed by a professional staff experienced in long-term recovery efforts. Members include:
Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal said, "In times of disaster it's important that government work with the private sector as well as non-profit groups to respond to immediate distress and be effective partners in the long term recovery process. This fund will serve as a great tool for filling the gaps in rebuilding areas impacted from disasters - whether natural or man-made."