The Bloomerang NetworkOn Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Solano Community Health Hub was abuzz with energy as our Medical Reserve Corps unit, California Health Medical Reserve Corps hosted the “Disaster Preparedness for Everyone” event. The event brought together community members, volunteers, and experts to focus on the critical need for inclusive disaster preparedness.
Presenting: World Institute on Disability, Marcie Roth, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer and Dawn Skaggs, Chief Programs Officer
The event featured valuable insights from keynote speakers, Marcie Roth, Executive Director and CEO of the World Institute on Disability, and Dawn Skaggs, Chief Programs Officer. Their presentations underscored the necessity of including people with disabilities in disaster preparedness efforts. The takeaway was that inclusive preparedness must be locally led, be community driven, include thoughtful universal design, be agile and flexible. Of equal importance, key players in inclusive planning and implementation should include the appropriate disability partners, accessible technologies, trained community members, responders and task forces.
“DOING FOR people with disabilities will never be sufficiently successful. DOING WITH people with disabilities is essential.”
– World Institute on Disability
Shawna Koga: NCCR Reunification Lead | American Red Cross
Throughout the day, attendees also engaged in sessions covering essential topics such as family health and safety, Alzheimer’s care, opioid overdose prevention and Narcan administration, and family reunification strategies. Experts like Dr. Karen Joubert, a registered nurse, Raenika Butler, a family care specialist from the Alzheimer’s Association, Veronica King, a certified substance use disorder counselor from the Urban Strategies Council, and Shawna Koga, NCCR reunification lead from the American Red Cross, provided actionable advice to all who attended.
Participants also had the opportunity to explore resource tables and an outdoor disaster preparedness exhibit showcasing CHMRC’s mobile capabilities, as well as the Fairfield City Fire Department’s fleet capabilities. This interactive part of the event allowed attendees to engage directly with experts and learn more about the tools and strategies necessary for effective preparedness. Each attendee left with a complimentary emergency go-bag and resources provided by CHMRC.
CHMRC team members and volunteers
Some attendees enjoying Fairfield City Fire Department Fleet Exhibit
California Health Medical Reserve Corps Outdoor Disaster Preparedness Exhibit
By bringing together experts, community members, and dedicated volunteers, CHMRC not only highlighted the importance of inclusive preparedness but also equipped attendees with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to protect themselves and their loved ones. Together, we are moving towards a safer future where no one is left behind in times of crisis.
Resources on Inclusive Disability Preparedness & More
Advocacy that Builds Equity in Disaster Planning
Reducing Anxiety During Disasters
Maintaining Health and Independence in Disaster
Strategies for Disaster and Vaccine Equity for People with Disabilities
