Turning moments of devastation into opportunities for renewed hope and resilience.
Our mission is simple: to provide immediate relief and empower the long-term recovery of communities impacted by disaster.
We are committed to disrupting disaster relief with a complete 180-degree response. We solve complex problems efficiently with innovative solutions, through smart partnerships, globally.
In 2025, GEF expended $188 million in aid, with only 3.8% going to corporate overhead – one of the highest dollar-vs-impact ratios in the nonprofit sector.
Global Empowerment Funds (GEF) was established in response to the devastating 2010 Haiti Earthquake.
Founded by Michael Capponi, GEF has grown into a leading international disaster relief organization, operating across the United States and on 5 continents.
Celebrating our 15th anniversary in 2025, we remain dedicated to being first on the ground and the last to leave, ensuring real resilience for affected communities.
"Our main objectives are to deliver the most amount of aid, to the most amount of people in need, in the shortest amount of time and with the least amount of costs to our donors. This also applies to our rebuilding efforts."— Michael Capponi, Founder & President
Michael Capponi is the visionary humanitarian and entrepreneur behind GEF. Leveraging decades of experience in real estate development, logistics, and philanthropy, he has transformed GEF into one of the most agile and impactful disaster relief organizations worldwide.
Under his leadership, GEF has reached millions, delivered hundreds of millions in aid, and built lasting partnerships that maximize every donor dollar.
Through our Smart Partnership Model, we maintain lean operations and deliver aid directly to those in need. We provide immediate stabilization – food, water, hygiene kits, shelter – and commit to long-term recovery, including roof repairs, home rebuilding, and community restoration.
Rapid deployment of essential supplies via planes, ships, containers, and trucks.
Rebuilding homes, schools, clinics, and infrastructure for lasting resilience.
Collaborating with governments, NGOs, and corporations for maximum impact.
$188M
Aid Expended
3.8%
Overhead
Millions
People Assisted
5
Continents
Charity Navigator 4-Star Rating • Recognized for effectiveness and accountability
