As the intensity and frequency of wildfires continue to escalate due to climate change communities across California are facing increasingly devastating environmental and public health impacts. In the aftermath of the recent catastrophic fires in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena, residents are grappling with the immediate destruction of homes, ecosystems, and critical infrastructure, while also confronting long-term recovery challenges. This virtual funder briefing will explore the urgent need for philanthropic support in wildfire prevention, recovery, and climate resilience, with a particular focus on these hard-hit communities. We will examine how wildfires exacerbate environmental vulnerabilities, disproportionately affecting underserved areas, and how funders can play a pivotal role in supporting both immediate relief and long-term resilience strategies.
The briefing will focus on the role of green infrastructure, fire-resilient landscaping, and effective land use policies in reducing wildfire risks, while ensuring that recovery efforts prioritize sustainability and equitable rebuilding. We'll discuss the critical need for emergency preparedness plans that are tailored to vulnerable communities, especially those with limited resources to prepare for and recover from the effects of wildfires. Funders will gain insights into how to support local and regional efforts to enhance climate resilience, empower community leaders, and mitigate the impacts of future disasters.
Throughout the briefing, we will highlight strategies for cross-sector collaboration and the importance of a holistic, equity-driven approach to climate resilience. Participants will learn about the critical intersections between wildfire preparedness, environmental justice, and public health, and how funders can support integrated solutions that address these interconnected challenges. By the end of the session, funders will have actionable insights on how to mobilize resources, strengthen community capacity, and invest in resilient, climate-adaptive strategies that can withstand future wildfire threats. This is a vital opportunity for funders to invest in the resilience of both people and ecosystems in the face of an increasingly unpredictable climate.
The SCG Environmental Funders Group meets quarterly to educate prospective and current environmental funders about environmental challenges and opportunities in Southern California and foster collaboration, and share successes and challenges. Please contact Katy Pelissier at katy@socalgrantmakers.org for more information or visit the group's page on the Southern California Grantmakers' website.
This program is part of SCG's 2025 recurring programs. To register for all upcoming dates, please click the "Register for Recurring Dates" button. This feature is only open to members; please contact us if you are a non-member and wish to register for the series at programsrsvp@socalgrantmakers.org or (213) 680-8866.
Recurring Dates:
