Hurricane Katrina: Twenty Years Later
The Storm That Shaped Us
When Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast 20 years ago, the impact was deeply personal for many HORNE team members. They suffered alongside their neighbors with destroyed homes and lack of basic utilities. Then an opportunity to help the community they loved came knocking – they could serve through their role at HORNE.
Professionals at HORNE and other firms across Mississippi worked tirelessly to manage the influx of federal relief funds. Their mission was clear: to help residents rebuild and restore their lives. For HORNE team members, this wasn’t just a professional challenge—it was a personal commitment to their communities.
Recognizing the urgent need for expert oversight as federal funding began flowing into Mississippi and neighboring states, HORNE stepped into a pivotal role. With no clear roadmap, the Ridgeland-based firm, founded on the cornerstone of accounting, leaned into one of its core values—service—to guide its efforts.
This marked a historic moment for Mississippi’s government, as it was the first time the state partnered with government and private sector experts to manage disaster recovery. It also marked HORNE’s entry into disaster recovery services.
HORNE’s commitment went beyond technical expertise—it was about being present, because that is what those communities deserved. HORNE Federal Managing Partner Cathy Denman reflected on the firm’s approach:
“We weren’t the type that would drop in and then leave. So, we were just a constant presence… our physical presence proved that the accounting side was worth it,” said Denman.
HORNE’s recovery efforts weren’t limited to certified public accountants alone. The firm built locally rooted teams—drawing from a range of professionals including auditors, program managers, construction specialists, and community liaisons—who lived in and understood the communities they served. This local presence wasn’t just strategic; it was essential to building trust and delivering results.
HORNE’s response to Hurricane Katrina laid the foundation for their nationwide disaster recovery footprint. Today, when disasters strike—whether hurricanes, floods, wildfires, or pandemics—Congress often allocates billions of dollars to support affected communities. Yet many states and local governments lack the infrastructure and expertise to manage these complex programs. That’s where HORNE steps in.
“Our disaster recovery division has proven time and time again our ability to adjust and be nimble…born out of our response to Katrina,” said Neil Forbes, Public Sector Managing Partner.
Over the years, HORNE has built a proven track record of managing large-scale recovery programs in states such as South Carolina, Florida, Mississippi, and California—distributing billions in aid and helping thousands of families return to safe homes. Its dedication to community service and innovation has earned nationwide recognition from federal, state, and local leaders.
Katrina didn’t just change the Gulf Coast—it changed HORNE. The firm’s commitment to service, innovation, and resilience continues to define its work and its mission: helping communities recover, rebuild, and thrive.