Building Strength and Bonds Through Community Connection

There are few things in this world more powerful than community connection. The more interconnected we are, the stronger our community is, and when we share with and care for one another, our ability to respond effectively immediately after the onset of a disaster and to operate successfully into the recovery phase is only ever improved. When we prepare to weather disasters and emergencies in our community, we must include improving interconnectedness as an aspect of that preparedness.

The City employs first responders, but they only make up about 1% of the City's population. Initial response will come from neighbors, family, and friends - people in closest proximity with the ambition to lend a helping hand. A well-connected community acts as a safety net for the most vulnerable members of that community as well. In your neighborhood there might be an elderly neighbor, a single parent, or a lonely expat who - without community to aid them - might miss an evacuation warning or order, not know where to go if they need to evacuate or be unable to prepare themselves as easily as others in the community. Just being aware of what our neighbors face is the first step towards strengthening our community preparedness, for it is from this understanding we can begin to pave the way towards support.

Here are some ways Santa Rosans can become more connected with one another:

Neighborhood Events

In our busy lives, we don't often have time to stop and chat with a neighbor on our way to the mailbox or to take out the trash. A block party, neighborhood potluck, or gathering of residents in an apartment complex can bring people together and provides an environment for neighbors to get to know one another. If there are no events occurring in your neighborhood, start the conversation about getting one going. If these are already on and you have been shy about attending - take the leap!

Clubs

Joining or starting a club brings people together who share similar hobbies in a localized region. An online search might reveal clubs geared toward something you may be interested in. For example, there are amateur radio clubs throughout Sonoma County. Sonoma County Radio Amateurs is the largest, offering support, guidance, and mentorship to people from all walks of life looking to get involved in amateur radio communications. Toastmasters International - a network of clubs that offer a supportive community centered around public speaking and presentations - has two Santa Rosa Clubs. These are just a few examples, but Sonoma County is home to many clubs focusing on different interests including, hiking, wine, dance, board gaming, music, languages, and more. Seek some out and see - maybe you'll make new friends!

First Fridays

Many cities nationwide participate in public events known generally as First Friday. In Santa Rosa, the South A Street Arts (SOFA) district hosts walks through their studios and galleries. The next walk will be the first Friday in October (Oct. 4, 2024). There are First Friday events throughout the County, including Sebastopol and Petaluma.

Emergency Preparedness with Friends

Everything is better when we do it together. Consider taking CPR and Basic First Aid classes with a group of friends, or together as a family. The American Red Cross offers training opportunities for First Aid periodically throughout the year. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) classes, offered by Northern Sonoma County CERT, provide basic emergency first aid, fire suppression, and search and rescue trainings. Sign up as a group, and learn together alongside family, friends, and neighbors.

Volunteering

Volunteering is an excellent way to give back to your community, and it can be done with neighbors, friends, and family. Find volunteering opportunities within the City of Santa Rosa's Recreation & Parks Department.

THANK YOU!

Thanks for participating in this year's Preparedness Month. Community connection and our ability to care for each other in the moments following a disaster improve overall resilience throughout the City. Three cheers for Santa Rosa!

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