First Up Foundation
Rapid Response. Real Help. Rebuilding Communities.
Our Mission
First Up Foundation is dedicated to providing immediate, practical assistance to individuals, families, and communities affected by natural disasters. We believe in being among the first to respond, offering hope, support, and resources when they're needed most. Through housing assistance, family support services, and communications hubs, we help communities rebuild and recover.
Status: Registered Nonprofit Organization in Nebraska
National Registration: Currently in Progress - We are actively working toward national nonprofit registration to expand our ability to serve communities across the United States.
Tax-Exempt Status: Pending 501(c)(3) Application
How We Help
First Up Foundation provides comprehensive disaster relief services to communities in need.
Housing Assistance
We provide immediate housing support for families displaced by disasters. This includes temporary shelter coordination, home repair assistance, and rebuilding support. We work with local contractors, volunteers, and community partners to restore safe, livable homes.
Family Support Services
Families affected by disasters need more than just physical resources. We provide essential supplies, food assistance, clothing, and emotional support. Our family support programs help restore stability and normalcy during the most challenging times.
Communications Hubs
When disaster strikes, communication is critical. We establish and operate communications assistance hubs that provide internet access, charging stations, phone services, and coordination centers. These hubs help families reconnect, access emergency services, and coordinate recovery efforts.
Emergency Response
As experienced storm chasers, we're often among the first on the scene. We leverage our weather expertise and network to provide rapid assessment, coordinate immediate relief efforts, and connect affected communities with critical resources.
Community Coordination
We work closely with local authorities, other nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and community leaders to ensure coordinated, efficient disaster response. Our goal is to maximize resources and minimize duplication of efforts.
Education & Preparedness
Prevention and preparedness save lives. We provide weather education, disaster preparedness training, and safety awareness programs to help communities better prepare for future events.
Need Assistance?
If you or your community have been affected by a natural disaster, we're here to help.
How to Request Help
1. Contact Us
Reach out through our contact form below, email, or phone. We respond to all requests as quickly as possible, prioritizing immediate emergencies.
2. Assessment
Our team will assess your situation and determine the best way we can assist. We work to understand your specific needs and circumstances.
3. Response
We coordinate resources and provide assistance based on your needs. This may include immediate aid, referrals to partner organizations, or longer-term support planning.
4. Follow-Up
We maintain contact to ensure your needs are met and provide ongoing support as your community recovers and rebuilds.
Our Impact
Together, we're making a difference in disaster-affected communities.
* Statistics will be updated as we begin operations and serve communities.
Support First Up Foundation
Your donation helps us provide immediate assistance to families and communities affected by natural disasters. Every contribution makes a difference in someone's recovery journey.
First Up Foundation is a registered nonprofit in Nebraska. Donations may be tax-deductible once 501(c)(3) status is approved. Please consult your tax advisor.
Get Involved
There are many ways to support First Up Foundation's mission.
Volunteer
Join our volunteer network and help us respond to disasters. We need volunteers for on-site assistance, communications, logistics, and more. Training provided.
Partner With Us
Businesses, organizations, and community groups can partner with us to expand our reach and resources. Together, we can do more.
Spread the Word
Help us raise awareness about First Up Foundation. Share our mission, follow our updates, and let others know how we can help in times of disaster.
Contact First Up Foundation
Whether you need assistance, want to volunteer, or have questions, we're here to help.
Other Ways to Reach Us
Email: Coming soon - contact form above will be active shortly
Phone: Coming soon
Mailing Address: Coming soon
For immediate disaster assistance, please use the contact form above and select "Requesting Assistance" for priority response.
Founded by Mike & John
First Up Foundation was established by Mike DeLange and John McKinney, combining their 60 years of combined storm chasing experience with a passion for helping others. Their unique position as first responders to severe weather events allows them to provide immediate assistance when communities need it most.
Through their storm chasing missions, Mike and John witness firsthand the devastation that natural disasters can cause. First Up Foundation is their way of turning that experience into action, providing real help to real people in their time of greatest need.