Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD) is an association of non-profit and faith-based organizations that work together to mitigate and alleviate the impact of disasters, provides a forum promoting cooperation, communication, coordination and collaboration; and fosters more effective delivery of services to communities affected by disaster. One example of how the MA VOAD supports survivors after a disaster is through Recovery Resource Centers. A Recovery Resource Center (RRC) is a single, “one stop shop” location where public and private organizations come together to assist disaster survivors. The specific types of assistance and services that can be coordinated by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) at a RRC will be determined by collaboration among MEMA, local officials, participating local and state agencies, voluntary community organizations, businesses, academic institutions and local charities, according to the needs of the impacted community and available resources. Learn more about VOAD and RRCs and how local organizations such as MRCs can assist.
This session is tailored for MRC Unit Leaders aiming to enhance their skills in planning, evaluating, and improving emergency preparedness programs. Participants will receive an overview of the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) and learn how to develop an Integrated Preparedness Plan (IPP), formerly known as the Multi-Year Training and Exercise Plan (MYTEP). The session will also cover Integrated Preparedness Planning Workshops (IPPWs), which are key tools for identifying priorities, aligning resources, and building a roadmap for preparedness activities. Additionally, Regina Villa Associates-staff will preview the Statewide MRC Training Plan that is in development. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to enhance their unit’s readiness and long-term planning efforts.
