Hear from our experts right here in our Ask a CSR Friend monthly column.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, we know collaboration is key to creating vibrant workplaces where employees are equipped to contribute to the communities and causes they care about. So, when you need a trusted advisor to lean on, rely on Points of Light to be Your CSR Friend. Each month, our experts share their wisdom and wit to address a specific but often universal challenge related to your work as a corporate social impact practitioner.

Dear CSR Friend,

I’m a newer CSR practitioner and was caught off guard last year when severe flooding impacted nearby communities. While our operations weren’t disrupted, employees kept reaching out, asking how they could help, and I didn’t have a clear plan or resources ready to guide them. With the Atlantic hurricane season now underway, I want to be better prepared. How can I quickly and responsibly engage employees in disaster response and recovery, while also setting us up for a more proactive, community-focused approach moving forward?

Signed,
Course-Correcting in Charlotte

Dear Course-Correcting,

As CSR professionals, we know that natural disasters can create a ripple effect across operations, our employees’ lives and the communities we serve. But more than just a reactive moment, disaster response is a strategic opportunity for companies to show up with empathy, efficiency and impact.

That means forming a cross-functional disaster response team (including CSR, HR, operations, facilities and communications) and developing a clear plan before disaster strikes. Review it annually and ensure every relevant function understands their role in a coordinated response. For help creating a plan, check out Navigating Disasters and Crises: A Practitioner Playbook for Corporate Responsibility, Philanthropy, and Community Investment Programs.

In crisis moments, employees naturally want to help. It’s our job to channel that desire into responsible and impactful action guided by community needs, company capabilities and nonprofit partner guidance. As you prepare for what may come this season, here are key strategies to help you meaningfully and responsibly engage employees in disaster response and recovery:

Form a Cross-Functional Disaster Response Team

Maintain a Ready-to-Activate Employee Relief Fund

Plan, Practice and Revise

Prioritize Employee Safety and Communication

Lead With Funding

Support Nonprofit Partners Responsibly

Be Thoughtful with Volunteer Opportunities

• Skills-based volunteering plays a significant role in response and recovery, not to mention building community resiliency. Projects can range from helping impacted residents navigate insurance claims, data mapping road closures and resource needs to more sophisticated support with logistics or restoring internet access.

A strong disaster response strategy isn’t just about reacting, it’s about building long-term readiness, trust and resilience. You don’t need every employee to take action, but you do need a thoughtful plan that offers clear ways to help.

When you prepare early, communicate clearly and partner intentionally, your company can respond meaningfully when it matters most.

Until next time,
Your CSR Friend