Preparing Local Social Service Agencies for Disaster Response April 4, 2012 TEMC
Tropical Storm Allison 2001 Hurricane Katrina 2005 Hurricane Ike 2008
Don’t worry- The government will fix everything!
Getting started
Meetings: Operationalize Operationalize Prioritize Prioritize Set Goals Set Goals
Define population: Who will we plan to assist?
Formal partners and informal partners Do MOU’s make a difference?
How will we do what we say we are going to do? StandardOperatingProcedures
Until the next disaster- We have a really great plan!
Perspectives from Inside the Framework WHY (partner with the government) WHO (to include) HOW (to make it work)
WHY? Chaos is not fun People want to help Expectations need a reality check
WHO? Providers already serving seniors Area Agency on Aging United Way
HOW? Maximize existing expertise Adopt-A-Senior-Housing Community Release of Staff
Maintaining a great plan Communication,Communication,Communication
Table top exercisesand panel presentations
Keep up and stay in touch!
Ellen Seaton, LMSW Harris County Community Services Department (713)
Jane Bavineau Executive Director, Care For Elders (713)