How Data and GIS Helps FEMA Equitably Allocate Resources with Heather Milton - videogram

Disasters can devastate communities greatly. When this happens, the focus of those affected is on survival, but after the immediate danger has been thwarted, many then turn their attention to longer-term issues of survival and recovery. For them, the most important thing is to get their lives back to normal.

In this event, disaster management is one of the most important public services that governments are responsible for. However, this statement immediately presents a challenge: How can we design a system to equitably distribute the limited resources so that as many people as possible are helped in the wake of a disaster?

Tune in as Jennifer interviews Heather Milton, a member of FEMA's Interagency Recovery Coordination team on the role of FEMA and GISCorps in ensuring that certain measures are observed to allow the underprivileged to access the same resources as the rest of the population. They also talk about how valuable data is for the government, where planning for allocation starts, the limitations of FEMA, how to design recovery programs, how to lead and redesign your community, and how individual members can contribute to the recovery of the community.

The system isn't perfect, but when the government, organizations, and communities work together, quick disaster recovery is possible.

Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.

At After the Fire USA, we believe in the power of resilience, community, and support. Our organization was born out of the recognition that wildfires can bring devastation and hardship to communities. We are committed to helping communities rebuild and become more resilient after wildfires and other disasters.

Our core initiatives include:

1. Community Resilience: We work closely with communities to develop and implement disaster preparedness and recovery plans. Our goal is to empower individuals and neighborhoods to better withstand future disasters.

2. Wildfire Education: Education is a key component of our mission. We offer resources and workshops to educate the public about wildfire prevention, safety, and the importance of being prepared. We host a podcast called How to Disaster with a wide variety of expertise and experience in preparing, responding, and rebuilding. Yearly, we convene the top leaders and wildfire survivors in the nation to share best practices, new ideas, and strengthen the network.

3. Wildfire Advocacy: We assist local, state, and federal leaders in navigating the process of recovery, access a wide network of experienced wildfire and disaster leaders, and advocate for wildfire policies and practices that prioritize safety and effective management.

4. Network of Experienced Leaders: We bring a massive network of experienced wildfire and disaster leaders as we deploy into newly fire-affected communities. Our commitment is to stay for the long-term process of recovery, providing expertise and support every step of the way.

As the CEO, I am passionate about leading this organization towards a future where communities are better equipped to face the challenges of wildfires. Together with our dedicated team and partners, we are making a difference in the lives of communities affected by these disasters.

Join us in our mission to promote resilience, educate, advocate, and provide long-term support. After the Fire USA is here to offer hope and work towards a safer, more resilient future.

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