Venable Foundation Annual Report

When devastating wildfires swept through Los Angeles, Venable partner William Briggs helped guide the Foundation’s response. Drawing on his experience in the community as president of the Los Angeles Board of Police Commissioners, he focused on identifying organizations that could provide comprehensive support. “We wanted to make sure that these organizations would be able to provide both immediate on-site care for those who lost everything in the devastation of the fires, whether that meant a hot meal, a place to stay, or clothing, and long-term help with insurance agencies or rebuilding,” Briggs said. “This was about getting resources to a community in its greatest moment of need.” World Central Kitchen (WCK), which provides meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises, was one of the first organizations Briggs and the Foundation selected. WCK was on the ground quickly, providing fresh meals to displaced families and first responders. Briggs and the Foundation also selected California Community Foundation (CCF) for its ability to coordinate both immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts. Through its Wildfire Recovery Fund, the CCF supported local nonprofits providing essential services, such as housing assistance, mental health support, and economic recovery resources. “The Venable Foundation’s grant enabled World Central Kitchen to respond quickly and with care in Los Angeles. This support translated directly into comfort, dignity, and hope for Angelenos at one of their most difficult moments.” Los Angeles Wildfi re Response Tunde Wackman , Chief Development Officer | World Central Kitchen William J. Briggs, II | Partner