Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/1059224
Drew Moyer CFO AD Q: What was the initial plan for the AD Disaster Relief Foundation and how did it change after Hurricane Harvey hit? A: Our initial plan for the AD Disaster Relief Foundation was to launch in early 2018. When Hurricane Harvey hit in August 2017 and we saw the devastation affecting some of our members, we realized we had to do something quickly. Bill Weisberg, Ricki Weisberg Ndege, and I jumped on the phone with our administrative partner, Foundation Source, to see how we could speed up the process to get folks the help they needed right away. Q: What were the organizational aspects that needed to be managed during the launch of the Foundation? A: First and foremost, we needed to make sure that we were doing everything correctly from a legal standpoint. We needed to secure our 501c3 tax status and create a grant application which would ensure that the grantee got the help they needed without being taxed on the funds. We AD CFO Drew Moyer discusses the creation and management of the AD Disaster Relief Foundation last year and what 2018 holds for the ground- breaking and beneficial initiative. needed to launch a website and communicate to our members and suppliers that we were there for them if their people needed help. We were definitely building the plane at the same time as we were flying it, but it was totally worth it to get the help to those in need. Q: What surprised you the most while launching the Foundation? A: What surprised me most was the extent to which government regulations over non-profit organizations make it difficult for folks who just want to help. It was disappointing that we couldn't act even quicker, but we learned a lot in the last year and now have solid systems and processes in place so that we can act quickly the next time a natural disaster strikes. Q: What are the Foundation's plans this year? A: In 2018, we plan to launch the in-kind donation portion of the Foundation's mission. When grant applicants fill out grants, they can note if they need building materials, industrial supplies, or other products common in REFLECTIONS ON THE AD DISASTER RELIEF FOUNDATION ONE YEAR LATER. To ge th er, We H elp . our industry. We'll post those needs on our website and the AD community can then donate those items that they may have overstocked or just want to give to those in need. 40 | AD Today 2018 | OWN IT If you live or work in an area that has been affected by a natural disaster, please visit www.adfoundation.com and apply for a grant for yourself or for your employees or co-workers in need.