Building Community Resilience to Emergencies in Vulnerable Populations: A Human Centered Approach to Community Outreach and Engagement

Abstract

Ramsey County Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (RCEMHS) has a knowledge gap in vital information about preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters in vulnerable communities. This study focused on three key vulnerable communities within Ramsey County: older adults (60 years or older), children under five, and the Karen population. Qualitative analysis of interviews was conducted with individuals, organizations, and government departments within Ramsey County. Due to the trans-boundary and trans-jurisdictional nature of natural and human-caused disasters, coordination within agencies and with nonprofit and private organizations is necessary. The study found that many vulnerable populations interact with public benefit programs, providing insight into disaster resilience. These touch-points can be trust and resilience-building exchanges. The communities have a lack of knowledge of RCEMHS and emergency management, and which may reinforce complacency towards emergency preparedness. To counter a lack of knowledge and engagement in emergency preparedness by communities, we recommend RCEMHS adopt a human centered approach in preparation and planning activities, where communities hold valuable expertise about their assets and vulnerabilities in regard to disasters. This study developed five recommendations for more effective outreach and engagement in emergency management. Each of the recommendations can use human centered design strategies and are aligned within a community resilience framework.