As a member of our CAP family, you’ve likely read stories about our Disaster Relief program and the work we do together to support families struck by natural catastrophes. CAP’s Disaster Relief program organizes volunteers to respond to the needs of those impacted by a natural disaster. Responses may include everything from home and property clean- up, to providing and distributing emergency disaster supplies. After recent flooding in West Virginia left hundreds in need of urgent assistance, CAP sent teams in to help the victims recover (read more on page 1). In 2014, thanks to your generous support, CAP was able to serve over 6,200 participants through this program. We are proud to share that, as of December 2014, CAP is recognized as a Weather-Ready Nation (WRN) Ambassador for our efforts to prepare the nation in readiness, responsiveness, and overall resilience against extreme weather, water, and climate events. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), to be officially recognized as a WRN Ambassador, an organization must commit to:
- Promoting Weather-Ready Nation messages and themes to their stakeholders
- Engaging with NOAA personnel on potential collaboration opportunities
- Sharing their success stories of preparedness and resiliency
- Serving as an example by educating employees on workplace preparedness
Not only is CAP serving alongside the NOAA as Weather-Ready Nation Ambassadors, but Robyn Renner, CAP’s Director of Disaster Relief, also serves on the Kentucky Weather Preparedness Committee’s East Kentucky chapter. This committee is composed of volunteers from emergency management, National Weather Service, broadcast media, and private sector communities. Their mission is to promote, educate, and increase weather awareness across the Commonwealth. CAP is also committed to using our reach throughout the Appalachian communities to educate people across multiple programs and improve readiness for any disasters that may come. CAP will be sharing Disaster Relief Preparedness Activity Books with all children during summer camp as a fun way to spread awareness to the next generation. Home Repair volunteer groups will also receive informational handouts and a briefing about disaster safety and any current and relevant tips. To learn more about the NOAA’s Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador program, visit noaa.gov/wrn.