When disaster hits close to home, it’s not always easy to know exactly how to respond and start picking up the pieces. As a member of a community, there is always a way to get involved and help in the relief efforts regardless of whether a disaster preparedness plan is in place. The UVM Extension Building Capacity Project has developed some tools to help guide you and become involved in disaster preparedness in your community. These resources were adapted from the Natural Rural Behavioral Center in production with the University of Florida link) and was developed to help communities ‘Triumph over Tragedy.’
Photo credit: Lars Gange & Mansfield Heliflight
The other resource available on the Building Capacity website is a tool for rural communities to use when faced with disaster. Rural communities have other obstacles to overcome, such as lack of resources, when disaster hits and this can cause more added stress on the community. The Special Concerns of Rural Communities presentation can assist community members in knowing what to expect from rural communities when disaster strikes and how to problem solve and tap into those resources that are available to them, such as local Extension services.
Photo credit: Lars Gange & Mansfield Heliflight
Disaster is not an easy feat to overcome, but it is possible and doable with the help and understanding of community members. To learn more about becoming involved in community leadership and development go to UVM Extension’s Community and Economic Vitality resource page. You can also find webinars and interactive learning materials on volunteer development on the Building Capacity website.Another resource available for rural communities is UVM’s Center for Rural Studies, here you will find personnel committed to community development and offer a range of specialized skills. It is important to get involved, because one person cannot do everything and everyone can bring something to the table.
Photo credit: Lars Gange & Mansfield Heliflight