Community-Based Disaster Coalition training.

Abstract

One key activity of the University of South Florida Preparedness and Emergency Response Learning Center is designing, developing, and delivering community preparedness, response, and recovery system training. Coalitions are vital for addressing emergencies or disaster situations within communities. The University of South Florida Community-Based Disaster Coalition was designed to address the challenges of building and sustaining coalitions, emphasize methods to enhance their sustainability and effectiveness, and strengthen their purpose and community impact during disasters. Teams of participants were offered 2 years of training to support coalition-building efforts. In year 1, participants engaged in 3 days of facilitator-led instruction, hands-on activities, tabletop exercises, and breakout groups to learn techniques to strengthen their coalition, which are the focus of this study. In year 2, participants engaged in additional training through course refreshers, distance learning opportunities, and webinars. Participants were grouped by county or region and comprised 6 to 9 people from a range of backgrounds and professions. During the 2012 (year 1) trainings, 184 people attended the program, representing nearly half (31; 46%) of Florida counties. Performance data indicated that participants significantly improved their knowledge scores, and course evaluations indicated that they were satisfied with the course overall. The Community-Based Disaster Coalition trainings focused on community capacity of disaster response in 31 counties, which represents close to 13 million people or nearly three-fourths of Florida residents. Training evaluations supported previous findings regarding critical coalition elements for development and sustainment, such as clear coalition purpose and goals. Several lessons were evident and inform future Community-Based Disaster Coalition efforts including adapting training to meet coalition needs; supporting the process of coalition building; following up with extended training opportunities and resources; continuing to provide trainings to counties that have not yet participated; and expanding training in other states, regions, territories, and internationally.