The Community Foundation serving Southwest Colorado with the City of Durango and La Plata County are activating the Community Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) to assist in the distribution of monetary donations to support the community of La Plata County after unprecedented rain brought flooding and significant damage earlier this week.  

Two CERF funds have been opened for La Plata (CERF) and Archuleta (Archuleta CERF) to assist the community in recovering from recent flooding and give individuals who would like to help a safe option to donate money. CERF is designated for broad-based community emergencies in Southwest Colorado. Community stakeholders deploy funds, as needed and as available, to community-based organizations supporting our region through emergency situations. 

Donating through CERF ensures that donations are collected in an efficient manner, and that they are directed to the appropriate areas of need. Online donations can be made through the Community Foundation’s website, swcommunityfoundation.org, by clicking on the “Donate” button under the specific CERF you would like to support. Checks made out to the Community Foundation – Memo: CERF – can be mailed to the P.O. Box 1673 Durango, CO 81302.  

“We have activated CERF for local emergencies such as the 416 fire and COVID to deploy funding to assist in recovery efforts in the past,” said Briggen Wrinkle, executive director of the Community Foundation. “CERF ensures that all donations support local residents and businesses.” 

Additional flood recovery resources can be accessed by dialing 2-1-1, texting to 898-211, or visiting 211colorado.org. You may also call 1-800-REDCROSS or visit redcross.org to see if you are eligible for Red Cross Recovery Assistance.  

The Community Foundation inspires hope, leadership and generosity in the community by bringing economic stability, professional development and collaboration to the nonprofit sector. As a community facilitator, the Community Foundation works to increase efficiency, sustainability and success for nonprofits, while maximizing effective grant-making for philanthropists.