Kentuckians have experienced firsthand how natural disasters can occur any time and often with little warning. Disasters take many forms, and their impacts can be felt across most areas of family life. Because there is no “one-size-fits-all” disaster model, planning community outreach can be challenging. To offer agents a structured-yet-flexible approach to natural disaster programming, the Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Service has developed the resource, In the Face of Disaster: An Agent Toolkit for Disaster Readiness. This toolkit is designed to equip FCS agents to better meet the unique needs of their counties and clients as they prepare for and respond to natural disasters. The In the Face of Disaster toolkit includes a toolkit guide that walks agents through a variety of programming options and delivery methods (such as presentations and workshops; webinars; demonstrations and booths; community panels; etc.). This is a multidisciplinary resource that allows agents to select programming material by FCS topic/content area (e.g., protecting your family and home; food and water safety; family finance and resource management; trauma; aging and special needs). The toolkit organizes existing internal and external materials, as well as In the Face of Disaster publication and podcast series. Participants will receive a printed copy of the toolkit, which contains a toolkit guide; publications; presentation slide decks with speaker notes; evaluation and reporting tools; activities and handouts; corresponding media resources; marketing materials; suggestions for audience delivery methods; and more. Agents will receive training on how to use the toolkit and its components. Counties that previously have not been given a kit will receive a sample emergency kit to use during county demonstrations and presentations. Paid registration is required to attend. KSU employees pay ($135) to Jan Childers at Family & Consumer Sciences, 135 Graham Ave. , Lexington, KY 40506.
