In the aftermath of a major disaster, Sonoma would likely be cut off, its emergency services tapped out. One asset in that time of need would be help from local volunteers.
To help the area better prepare for disasters by coordinating volunteer help, the Sonoma Disaster Council invites interested community organizations and individuals to attend an exercise on how to run an Emergency Volunteer Center. The session is Saturday, April 24, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Sonoma Community Center.
“We now know two things about major disasters: communities that are located far from urban areas may be on their own, and people will want to help their neighbors,” explained trainer Phyllis Onstad, an experienced disaster volunteer manager and workshop trainer who will be presenting the training.
“An emergency volunteer center can serve as an adjunct to our own emergency operations center, to refer people who want to help to where the help is needed,” said City Manager Linda Kelly.
The Emergency Volunteer Center fits with the Sonoma Citizens Disaster Council’s goals in fostering greater planning and integration of community resources and preparedness. The training is primarily aimed at community organizations that wish to play a coordinating volunteer role in the event of a disaster. Individuals desiring to assist with a volunteer effort following a disaster are also welcome.
Registration in advance is requested by contacting Debra N. Rogers of the City of Sonoma at 933-2218 or debrar@sonomacity.org
The workshop is presented by the Volunteer Center of Sonoma County and underwritten by California Volunteers, an office of State government.
