Leading with Compassion: Building Community in Times of Crisis - Newsletter #27

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When a crisis strikes, it has a way of exposing the heart of a community. We see it in the ways neighbors check on each other, in the small acts of kindness, and in the collective effort to rebuild what has been lost. As Los Angeles grapples with the devastating wildfires, we are reminded of the power of community—and the role compassion plays in uniting us.

Having grown up in the Midwest, where in my case everyone knew their neighbors and lent a hand without hesitation, I’ve always believed in the strength of community. That belief has shaped my career, my values, and my approach to leadership. Now, as someone who lives and works in LA, I’ve been reflecting deeply on how we can continue to cultivate that same sense of connection, even in the midst of chaos and destruction.

Compassion in Action

Compassion isn’t just about empathy; it’s about action. It’s seeing a need and stepping up to meet it. In Los Angeles, we’re witnessing countless examples of this: neighbors opening their homes to those displaced by the fires, volunteers delivering supplies to evacuation centers, and organizations working tirelessly to support those affected. These moments remind us that every small act matters and that together, we can create a powerful ripple effect.

For those of us who feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of the crisis, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to do everything to make a difference. Start where you are. Maybe it’s donating to a local organization, offering support to a friend, or even just sharing resources on social media. Compassion starts with recognizing that we all have something to give—whether it’s time, money, or simply a listening ear.

Building Bridges Locally and Globally

My work has taught me the value of connection on a global scale, but this crisis has reminded me of the importance of leaning into our local communities. In recent weeks, I’ve been getting to know my neighborhood better: visiting local organizations, attending community meetings, leaning into our amazing local news media, Government officials, leaders and finding ways to contribute. It’s a practice that I encourage everyone to adopt, not just during times of crisis but as a way of life.

Community isn’t just about geography; it’s about shared purpose and mutual care. It’s about recognizing that we’re stronger together than we are alone. Whether you’re connecting with your next-door neighbor or collaborating with someone halfway across the world, the principles remain the same: listen, show up, and act with kindness.

Leadership Rooted in Empathy

As a leader, I’ve learned that empathy is one of the most powerful tools we have. It allows us to understand others’ experiences and respond in ways that are meaningful. But empathy alone isn’t enough. True leadership requires translating that understanding into action—creating solutions, fostering collaboration, and empowering others to make a difference. We never know what is behind someone’s smiling eyes.

During times of crisis, leaders have an opportunity to model the kind of behavior that strengthens communities. This means prioritizing transparency, offering support, and showing that you’re in it with your team. It also means acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties we’re facing while remaining focused on what we can achieve together.

Practical Steps for Supporting Your Community

If you’re looking for ways to contribute during this time, here are a few ideas to consider:

• Support local organizations: Many non-profits and grassroots groups are on the front lines of the wildfire response. Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations that are providing direct aid to affected individuals and families.
• Check in with your network: Reach out to friends, colleagues, and neighbors to see how they’re doing. Sometimes, a simple conversation, text, meme or emoji can provide much-needed comfort and connection.
• Share resources: Use your platform, whether it’s social media, email, or word of mouth, to share information about relief efforts, fundraising campaigns, and other ways people can help.
• Take care of yourself: Supporting your community is important, but so is taking care of your own well-being. Make sure you’re prioritizing rest, self-care, and time to process your own emotions.
• Call out disinformation: rumors, gossip, finger pointing and showboating gas no place amongst the clean up before, during and after disasters. Root-causes, improvements and direct action to do better are what is essential to understanding what happened and looking towards the future.

A Call to Action

The challenges we’re facing in Los Angeles are significant, but so is the resilience of our community. This is a moment to come together, to lead with compassion, and to show what it means to truly care for one another. Let’s take this opportunity to not only respond to the immediate crisis but also to build a stronger, more connected community for the future.

As we navigate these difficult times, I invite you to reflect on what community means to you. How can you contribute? What small actions can you take today that might make a difference for someone else? And most importantly, how can we continue to show up for each other—not just during moments of crisis but every day?

Let’s lead with compassion, together.

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