About the Pan American Development Foundation
Hurricanes, floods, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes claim lives and ruin livelihoods. PADF, the disaster relief arm of the OAS, mobilizes immediate relief funds from both individuals and corporate partners to help the most vulnerable victims.
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, PADF works closely with municipal leaders, community organizations, companies, and civil defense agencies to identify the highest priorities, mobilize the business sector, and deliver programs and resources with the greatest impact. Once initial needs are met, PADF participates in the reconstruction process.
Working Together
Through its affiliation with the OAS, PADF can send relief supplies to affected communities without paying import duties—which guarantees that more goods arrive to those most in need.
PADF is also a trustee and implementation partner of the Inter-American Disaster Mitigation Network (a mechanism created by the OAS, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the Pan American Health Organization) to ensure institutional coordination of and information sharing about vulnerability reduction, disaster response, prevention, and reconstruction.
In its 46-year history, PADF’s disaster management program has evolved to include more than just post-disaster emergency relief. The program collaborates with communities, government authorities, non-government organizations, and the private sector to help countries manage disaster risk through mitigation and prevention activities.
About PADF’s Other Important Hemispheric Programs
Created in 1962, the Pan American Development Foundation is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that creates public-private partnerships to assist the least advantaged people in Latin America and the Caribbean.
PADF engages community-based groups, non-governmental organizations, national, state, and municipal governments, and the private sector in the process of implementing appropriate solutions for sustainable development.
Through these relationships and partnerships, PADF achieves excellent and lasting impact in creating economic opportunities, promoting social investments, strengthening communities and civil society, and preparing for and responding to natural disasters.
PADF is located in Washington, D.C., has worked in almost every country in the hemisphere, and has field offices in Haiti, Colombia, El Salvador, and throughout the Americas.
Tracking Hurricanes
If you want the latest news on hurricanes, visit the U.S. National Hurricane Center.
Tracking Earthquakes
If you want the latest news on earthquakes, visit the U.S. Geological Survey.
Contact Us
Pan American Development FoundationOrganization of American States Building
1889 F Street, NW, Second Floor
Washington, D.C. 20006
Tel.: (202) 458-3969
[email protected]
