Community & Networking

Building strong community connections is a cornerstone of resilience and preparedness. In times of crisis, your network can provide support, resources, information, and a sense of belonging that makes all the difference. Community is not just about proximity—it's about trust, cooperation, and shared purpose.

Explore ways to connect with neighbors, local organizations, and online groups. Learn how to share skills, organize mutual aid, and foster trust so that your community is ready to face challenges together—whether it’s a natural disaster, power outage, or long-term change. Strong networks help everyone adapt, recover, and thrive.

Why Community Matters

Shared Resources: Pooling tools, food, and knowledge increases everyone’s resilience.

Faster Response: Coordinated action means quicker help in emergencies.

Emotional Support: Facing challenges together reduces stress and isolation.

Learning & Growth: Diverse skills and perspectives spark innovation and problem-solving.

Ways to Build Community

Start or join a local preparedness group or neighborhood watch

Participate in community events, workshops, or training sessions

Share resources, tools, and knowledge with others

Organize skill-sharing meetups or online forums

Volunteer for local emergency response or mutual aid networks

Host potlucks, work parties, or neighborhood cleanups

Connect with local leaders, schools, and faith groups

Use social media or messaging apps to stay in touch and share updates

Tips for Effective Networking

Be proactive—reach out and introduce yourself to neighbors

Listen and learn about others’ needs, skills, and concerns

Offer help and ask for help—reciprocity builds trust

Keep communication clear, respectful, and inclusive

Celebrate successes and milestones together

Benefits of Networking

Access to diverse skills and resources

Faster and more effective response in emergencies

Emotional support and encouragement

Opportunities for learning and collaboration

Greater sense of belonging and purpose

Recommended Resources

Ready.gov – Community Preparedness Toolkit

Meetup – Preparedness Groups

Mutual Aid Hub – Find Local Mutual Aid Groups

Quotes on Community

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” — Helen Keller

“The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.” — Phil Jackson