When Hurricane Sandy struck New York City in 2012, it sparked an idea that would eventually become Airbnb.org. A Brooklyn host named Shell reached out to Airbnb, asking how she could offer her home for free to help house survivors. This act of generosity led to the creation of a platform that has since provided emergency stays to over 220,000 people displaced by crises worldwide.
Christoph Gorder, the executive director of Airbnb.org, recently shared insights into the organization’s mission, challenges, and future goals. With his extensive background in global humanitarian initiatives, Gorder brings a unique perspective to this tech-driven nonprofit.
Christoph Gorder, Executive Director of Airbnb.org
The Power of Community in Crisis Response
At the heart of Airbnb.org’s success is the generosity of its host community. With 5 million hosts and 9 million properties worldwide, the organization has a vast network to tap into during times of crisis. Gorder emphasizes the importance of this community-driven approach:
“We definitely find that the hosts step up in times of need and really are the backbone of this. Our job is really to empower them and to be able to capture that generous spirit in times of need.”
This spirit of hospitality has led to hosts in 134 countries opening their homes to those in need. The organization’s ability to quickly mobilize this network has proven crucial in responding to various emergencies, from natural disasters to humanitarian crises.
Adapting to Complex Challenges
One of the most significant challenges Airbnb.org faced was the Ukraine crisis, where they housed over 130,000 people fleeing the conflict. This experience demonstrated the organization’s ability to scale its operations and adapt to complex situations.
Gorder acknowledges the complexity of their work, stating:
“You think about housing people, getting people into the right houses on the other side of the world. We were working in Brazil a few weeks ago. We were working in Chile and Japan just in the last couple months. So you think about the logistics, the cultural aspects, the complications, the trauma that people are going through, the sensitivity that you need to adapt to, the government rules and regulations which are different. It’s enormously complex.”
Despite these challenges, Airbnb.org’s success in responding to the Ukraine crisis has set a new benchmark for their capabilities, inspiring confidence in their ability to tackle future emergencies.
Partnerships and Funding: A Collaborative Approach
Airbnb.org’s impact is amplified through partnerships with over 100 organizations worldwide. These collaborations allow them to identify the most vulnerable cases and provide comprehensive support beyond just housing.
The organization’s funding model is unique, combining host generosity with public donations. Hosts can offer their places for free or at a discount, while others contribute a portion of their proceeds to fund stays. Airbnb, as a company, covers all operating costs, ensuring that 100% of public donations go directly to paying for stays.
Looking to the Future: Becoming the Go-To Platform for Emergency Housing
As global displacement and housing insecurity continue to rise, Gorder envisions Airbnb.org becoming the primary platform for temporary emergency housing. He aims to leverage the power of the Airbnb community, harnessing their values of belonging and welcoming for humanitarian purposes.
“I would love to see Airbnb.org become the go-to platform for temporary emergency housing and really leverage and harness the power of the Airbnb community of 5 million hosts and a hundred million guests or people who use it in their leisure travel to be able to harness that community, which has been really a values-driven community around belonging and welcoming and hosting,”
Gorder explains.
This ambitious goal reflects the organization’s commitment to making a significant impact in crisis response and humanitarian aid. By continuing to build tools and raise awareness, Airbnb.org hopes to be the first thought for those seeking temporary housing in emergencies. The story of Airbnb.org is one of innovation, adaptability, and human kindness. It demonstrates how technology and community can come together to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. As Gorder puts it, “When you see the inspiring generosity of people, that gives me energy.”
In a world often dominated by negative news, Airbnb.org serves as a reminder of the power of human compassion and the potential for positive change when people come together to help those in need. As the organization continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a beacon of hope for displaced individuals and communities worldwide, offering not just a place to stay, but a chance to rebuild and recover in times of crisis.
To listen to the full interview or read the transcript, just click here.
Denver Frederick, Host of The Business of Giving serves as a Trusted Advisor and Executive Coach to Nonprofit Leaders. His Book, The Business of Giving: New Best Practices for Nonprofit and Philanthropic Leaders in an Uncertain World, is available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.