Youth Preparedness 

Catalogue 

Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Revised October 2015
i Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

YOUTH PREPAREDNESS CATALOGUE 

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS EDUCATION 

PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES

Introduction

Youth preparedness is an essential component of community preparedness. It helps leverage children’s unique strengths, 

and helps overcome some of children’s unique vulnerabilities, as related to emergencies and disasters. Starting or getting 

involved with a youth preparedness program is a great way to enhance a community’s resilience and help develop future 

generations of prepared adults. This Catalogue has been developed to assist individuals with locating preparedness programs 

and resources that are tailored to youth.

Purpose of this Catalogue

This Catalogue supports individuals interested in promoting youth preparedness education by connecting them with existing 

local-, state-, and national-level programs. It also directs readers to curricula and resources that can be used to develop or 

sustain a program.

Using the Catalogue

There are two primary reasons someone might use this Catalogue:

1. Finding programs with which to partner or otherwise get involved

2. Finding curricula and resources for developing/conducting a youth preparedness program or otherwise

working with youth

The information in this Catalogue has been organized to facilitate these two purposes. The first section includes existing 

programs. Individuals interested in getting involved with youth preparedness are encouraged to coordinate with existing 

programs when feasible, so as not to duplicate efforts. Programs are organized into national-level, regional, and state-level 

programs. Readers are encouraged to look at programs at all levels that might meet their needs. 

Each state and territory falls into one of ten FEMA regions, as can be seen on the next page. 
ii Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Figure 1: FEMA Regions1

National programs are included first. In some cases, national programs have local chapters, so practitioners who are 

interested in these programs should check for branches of the organization that may exist in their community. Programs 

are then listed by FEMA region. The states within each region are broken out in alphabetical order. 

Existing youth preparedness curricula and resources can be found after the Programs section. Curricula are in their own 

section, as are resources. Individuals who are starting or running youth preparedness programs may also be interested in 

existing tools and resources. Using existing curricula or activities can help reduce the resource burden on the program as 

program managers are not then required to spend time and money developing these resources. 

The Resources & Activities section includes in-person activities, worksheets, online games, community engagement 

activities—anything that can be used as part of a youth preparedness program to enhance the participants’ learning 

experience. The Publications section contains materials primarily tailored to adults who work with youth on preparedness. 

The final section is Other Resources, which includes anything that may be relevant to adults working in youth preparedness 

but that did not fit into the previous categories. 

Tables are included at the beginning of the Programs, Curricula, and Resources & Activities sections, to facilitate searching 

by criteria such as the topics covered or the recommended age for participants. Please note that these ages are approximate. 

In the instances where a program or activity has been developed for a specific grade, a rough age equivalent is provided. 

However, be sure to look at the individual program, curriculum, or activity in more detail to confirm whether it would 

be appropriate for your purposes.

1

Image from http://www.fema.gov/regional-operations
iii Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Technical Assistance

In addition to this Catalogue, FEMA makes available a number of tools for individuals who are starting or running youth 

preparedness programs:

• Youth Preparedness: Implementing a Community-Based Program (http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/

documents/97083) provides information about high-level steps for implementing a youth preparedness 

program.

• Youth Preparedness Program Implementation Tools (http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/

documents/34292)

- The Youth Preparedness Program Implementation Workbook helps program managers brainstorm and implement 

each of the steps discussed in Youth Preparedness: Implementing a Community-Based Program.

- The Youth Preparedness Program Implementation Checklist helps program managers ensure that they have 

thoroughly completed each of the implementation steps discussed in Youth Preparedness: Implementing a 

Community-Based Program.

- The Youth Preparedness Funding Guide provides information about securing funding and resources for 

a program.

- The Youth Preparedness Quick Tips to Mitigate Risks provides a quick overview of basic strategies to manage key 

risks that a program might face.

- The Youth Preparedness Guide to Risk Management helps program managers identify potential risks associated 

with their programs, as well as techniques to mitigate those risks.

Technical assistance is also available directly from FEMA, for either general questions or specific assistance with starting 

or maintaining a youth preparedness program. Individuals with questions are encouraged to email 

FEMA-Youth-Preparedness@fema.dhs.gov. Additional information about youth preparedness is also available at 

www.ready.gov/youth-preparedness.
iv Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

National Strategy for Youth Preparedness Education: 

Empowering, Educating and Building Resilience

FEMA, the Red Cross, and the Department of Education partnered in developing the National Strategy for Youth Preparedness Education: Empowering, Educating and Building Resilience (National Strategy). Information about the National Strategy can be accessed under the

National Strategy tab at http://www.ready.gov/youth-preparedness.

This document outlines a vision for a Nation of prepared youth and provides nine priority steps that partners at the local, 

state, and national levels can take to help make that vision a reality. Organizations can affirm their support for the National 

Strategy, aligned with the nine priority steps. The affirmers represent a growing network of organizations dedicated to 

building a more resilient Nation. 

National Strategy affirmers are denoted in this Catalogue by the following symbol: 

For more information about affirming the National Strategy, individuals are encouraged to email 

FEMA-Youth-Preparedness@fema.dhs.gov.

Maintaining this Catalogue

This Catalogue is a living document, and additional programs will be added periodically. Programs that would like to 

be included, or that have resources they would like to include, are encouraged to send the information to

FEMA-Youth-Preparedness@fema.dhs.gov.

The following information and links to third-party sites are provided for your reference. FEMA does not endorse any 

non-government website, company, or application. The information provided here comes from the entities sponsoring 

each program. 

The following information and links to third party sites are provided for your reference. 

FEMA does not endorse any non-government website, company, or application. 

The information provided here comes from the entities sponsoring each program.
v Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Please note that not every state has programs that are registered in this Catalogue. If you would like to submit information 

for a program in your area, please contact the FEMA Youth Preparedness Technical Assistance Center at 

FEMA-Youth-Preparedness@fema.dhs.gov.

PROGRAMS

NATIONAL ...................................................................................................................................................................09

Always Ready Kids................................................................................................................................. 09

America’s PrepareAthon! ....................................................................................................................... 09

AmeriCorps........................................................................................................................................... 09

Be the Beat®........................................................................................................................................... 10

Cadet Program....................................................................................................................................... 10

Camp Noah ........................................................................................................................................... 10

FEMA Corps .......................................................................................................................................... 11

Fire & Emergency Services Career Exploring ......................................................................................... 11

Fire Corps.............................................................................................................................................. 11

Get Ready Children’s Workshop ............................................................................................................ 12

Get Ready Get Safe Prep Rally................................................................................................................ 12

Hope Scouts........................................................................................................................................... 12

HOSA-Future Health Professionals ........................................................................................................ 13

Journey of Hope (JOH)......................................................................................................................... 13

Law Enforcement Career Exploring ....................................................................................................... 13

LoneStar Emergency Services Academy ................................................................................................. 14

McGruff Club ........................................................................................................................................ 14

Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)............................................................................................................... 14

National Junior Firefighter Program ...................................................................................................... 15

Neighborhood Watch ............................................................................................................................ 15

Red Cross Clubs..................................................................................................................................... 15

Resilient and Ready Communities Initiative .......................................................................................... 16

Safety Town........................................................................................................................................... 16
vi Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

SHOREline............................................................................................................................................. 16

Teens, Crime, and the Community ....................................................................................................... 17

United States Power Squadrons: Youth Activities Committee ................................................................ 17

Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS): Youth-Related Activities................................................................ 17

Young ShelterBox Club .......................................................................................................................... 18

Youth Creating Disaster Recovery and Resilience (YCDR2)................................................................... 18

Youth Preparedness Council.................................................................................................................. 18

REGION I.......................................................................................................................................................................19

Massachusetts............................................................................................................................................ 20

Project 351............................................................................................................................................. 20

New Hampshire ....................................................................................................................................... 20

City of Nashua Teen CERT ..................................................................................................................... 20

REGION II.....................................................................................................................................................................21

New Jersey ................................................................................................................................................. 22

Hope Scouts, Central New Jersey........................................................................................................... 22

Millstone Township Fire Company Explorers........................................................................................ 22

Ridgefield Park Youth Squad.................................................................................................................. 22

New York.................................................................................................................................................... 23

New York City Law Enforcement Exploring .......................................................................................... 23

Ready Schools........................................................................................................................................ 23

The Urban Assembly School for Emergency Management (UASEM)..................................................... 24

REGION III....................................................................................................................................................................25

Delaware ......................................................................................................................... 26

School Disaster Preparedness Program .................................................................................................. 26

District of Columbia .............................................................................................................................. 26

Commander Ready Program ................................................................................................................. 26

Maryland ......................................................................................................................... 27

Community Emergency Response Network (CERN)............................................................................. 27

Virginia ........................................................................................................................... 27

Explorers Post #343 .............................................................................................................................. 27

Operation Rescue Ready ........................................................................................................................ 27
vii Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

REGION IV....................................................................................................................................................................28

Alabama .......................................................................................................................... 29

Be Ready Camp...................................................................................................................................... 29

Florida ............................................................................................................................. 29

Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies (BRACE)................................................................... 29

Georgia ............................................................................................................................ 30

Cobb County Safety Village ................................................................................................................... 30

Kentucky ......................................................................................................................... 30

Eastside Technical Center....................................................................................................................... 30

Kentucky Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP)............................................ 31

Mississippi ....................................................................................................................... 31

Mississippi Youth Preparedness Initiative (MyPI).................................................................................. 31

REGION V .....................................................................................................................................................................32

Michigan ......................................................................................................................... 33

Lake Michigan Catholic High School Teen CERT Program..................................................................... 33

Lake Superior State University/Upward Bound CERT Program ............................................................. 33

Michigan Law Enforcement Youth Advisory Academy .......................................................................... 34

Redford Township Police Explorers....................................................................................................... 34

STEP Michigan....................................................................................................................................... 35

Ohio ................................................................................................................................ 35

Public Safety Support Citizen Academy.................................................................................................. 35

Wisconsin....................................................................................................................... 36

READY Camp......................................................................................................................................... 36

REGION VI....................................................................................................................................................................37

Louisiana ......................................................................................................................... 38

Get a Game Plan .................................................................................................................................... 38

TeamHappy: Youth Preparedness Program............................................................................................ 38

New Mexico .................................................................................................................... 39

American Red Cross Arizona/New Mexico/El Paso Regional Chapter.................................................. 39

Nana’s Fire and Safety School ................................................................................................................ 39
viii Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Texas................................................................................................................................ 40

American Red Cross Arizona/New Mexico/El Paso Regional Chapter.................................................. 40

Friscoe Fire Safety Town........................................................................................................................ 40

Ready Houston ...................................................................................................................................... 40

Summer Service Club ............................................................................................................................ 41

Texas Youth Preparedness Camp............................................................................................................ 41

REGION VII...................................................................................................................................................................42

Missouri .......................................................................................................................... 43

Mid America Teen CERT........................................................................................................................ 43

REGION VIII.................................................................................................................................................................44

Colorado.......................................................................................................................... 45

Aurora Teen CERT Program................................................................................................................... 45

Safe Kids Colorado................................................................................................................................. 45

Utah ................................................................................................................................ 46

American Red Cross Utah Region Youth Services Program ................................................................... 46

Utah HOSA............................................................................................................................................ 46

REGION IX....................................................................................................................................................................47

Arizona............................................................................................................................ 48

American Red Cross Arizona/New Mexico/El Paso Regional Chapter.................................................. 48

California ........................................................................................................................ 48

Ark of Safety Youth................................................................................................................................ 48

American Canyon Red Cross Club ......................................................................................................... 49

Boy Scouts, Troop 9 Petaluma, California ............................................................................................. 49

California Cadet Corps........................................................................................................................... 49

City of Anaheim Teen CERT Program.................................................................................................... 50

City of Costa Mesa Teen CERT Program................................................................................................. 50

City of Ontario Fire Explorers Program................................................................................................. 50

Firewise in the Classroom ..................................................................................................................... 51

LAPD Cadets .......................................................................................................................................... 51

Long Beach Search & Rescue ............................................................................................................... 51

Long Beach Teen CERT Program............................................................................................................ 52

Los Angeles Youth Preparedness Program for Schools ......................................................................... 52
ix Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Safety Town Santa Barbara..................................................................................................................... 52

San Bernardino County Fire Office of Emergency Services (County OES)............................................. 53

South Los Angeles Teen CERT Collaborative .......................................................................................... 53

Team SAFE-T.......................................................................................................................................... 54

West County CERT ................................................................................................................................ 54

Youth Leadership Development Program .............................................................................................. 54

Guam............................................................................................................................... 55

School Children Outreach Empowerment (SCORE) Program ............................................................... 55

Harvest Christian Academy CERT Club.................................................................................................. 55

San Marcos High School Academy of Hospitality, Business and Law, Teen CERT Program.................... 55

Simon Sanchez High School Tourism Academy Teen CERT Program .................................................... 56

Nevada............................................................................................................................. 56

Northeast Nevada Citizen Corps/CERT Program ................................................................................. 56

REGION X .....................................................................................................................................................................57

Oregon ............................................................................................................................ 58

Wasco County 4-H Youth Development Program ................................................................................. 58

Washington ..................................................................................................................... 58

Tacoma LDS CERT Program................................................................................................................... 58

CURRICULA

9-1-1 for Kids......................................................................................................................................... 62

Be Prepared! Emergency Preparedness Patch Program .......................................................................... 62

Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge ................................................................................................... 63

First Aid Badge....................................................................................................................................... 63

Get Ready with Freddie!........................................................................................................................ 63

Hug-a-Tree and Survive ......................................................................................................................... 64

IS-909: Community Preparedness: Implementing Simple Activities for Everyone................................. 64

Let’s Learn to Prevent Disasters! Educational Kit.................................................................................... 64

Masters of Disaster................................................................................................................................. 65

NetSmartz Workshop............................................................................................................................. 65

Pillowcase Project.................................................................................................................................. 65

Ready Houston ...................................................................................................................................... 66

Sesame Street Fire Safety Station Program ............................................................................................. 66
x Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Signs of Suicide (SOS) Prevention Program........................................................................................... 66

StormZone............................................................................................................................................. 67

Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP) ...................................................................................... 67

Team SAFE-T.......................................................................................................................................... 68

Teen Community Emergency Response Team (Teen CERT).................................................................. 68

Young ShelterBox................................................................................................................................... 69

Youth Emergency Preparedness............................................................................................................. 69

RESOURCES & ACTIVITIES

American Red Cross College Resources ................................................................................................. 71

CPR in SchoolsTM................................................................................................................................... 71

Disaster Hero......................................................................................................................................... 71

Disaster Preparedness Coloring Book..................................................................................................... 72

Disaster Response and Relief ................................................................................................................. 72

Environmental Protection Agency: Student Resources........................................................................... 72

Firefacts.org........................................................................................................................................... 73

generationOn ........................................................................................................................................ 73

Get Ready .............................................................................................................................................. 73

Great ShakeOut...................................................................................................................................... 74

Here for Each Other: Helping Families After Emergencies.................................................................... 74

International Tsunami Information Center............................................................................................ 75

Kids Get a Plan....................................................................................................................................... 75

Let’s Get Ready! Planning Together for Emergencies.............................................................................. 75

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): Various Resources.................................. 76

Preparedness 101: Zombie Apocalypse .................................................................................................. 76

Prep-Pardy: A Preparedness Game......................................................................................................... 76

Ready Kids............................................................................................................................................. 77

Ready New York: Kids........................................................................................................................... 77

Ready... Set... Prepare: A Disaster Preparedness Activity Book ............................................................. 77

Ready Wrigley ....................................................................................................................................... 78

Restore the Shore: Patch Program.......................................................................................................... 78

Scrub Club............................................................................................................................................. 78
xi Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Sparky.................................................................................................................................................... 79

Sprinkler Smarts.................................................................................................................................... 79

The Day the Earth Shook ....................................................................................................................... 79

The Rescue League Academy: Sink or Swim!......................................................................................... 80

Young Meteorologist Program............................................................................................................... 80

Zombie Apocalypse Party ...................................................................................................................... 80

PUBLICATIONS

Before Disaster Strikes... A Guide to Food Safety in the Home.............................................................. 82

Emergency Preparedness ....................................................................................................................... 82

Family Readiness Kit.............................................................................................................................. 82

Helping Children Cope with Disaster.................................................................................................... 82

National Report Card on Protecting Children in Disasters..................................................................... 83

Pediatric Preparedness Resource Catalog ............................................................................................... 83

The Unique Needs of Children in Emergencies: A Guide for the Inclusion of Children in 

Emergency Operations Plans ................................................................................................................. 83

Youth Volunteers in Disaster Services.................................................................................................... 83

OTHER RESOURCES

Aware & Prepare ................................................................................................................................... 85

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)................................................................................................ 85

Children in Disasters Caucus, International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM).................... 85

Citizen Corps ........................................................................................................................................ 86

CLASP Advisors ..................................................................................................................................... 86

Community Preparedness Index (CPI), Save the Children and Columbia University’s National 

Center for Disaster Preparedness........................................................................................................... 86

Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS)................................................................... 86

Delta Emergency Response Team (ERT), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.............................. 87

Department of Homeland Security Center for Faith-Based & Neighborhood Partnerships.................... 87

Disaster And Crisis Communication Center, University of Missouri ..................................................... 87

Effective Education for Disaster Risk Reduction .................................................................................... 87

Emergency Management Division, Orange County Sheriff’s Department ............................................. 88

Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN)..................................................................................... 88

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)............................................................................................. 88
xii Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

FEMA Office of Disability Integration & Coordination (ODIC)............................................................. 88

FEMA Office of the Senior Law Enforcement Advisor (OSLEA)............................................................. 89

Firewise Communities/USA Recognition Program............................................................................... 89

Girl Scouts of the USA Gold Award ....................................................................................................... 89

Guam Homeland Security Office of Civil Defense................................................................................. 89

Homeland Security/Emergency Management Honor Society................................................................ 90

Lead and Manage My School: Emergency Planning............................................................................... 90

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)................................................................ 90

National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (National VOAD) ................................................ 90

Office of Human Services Emergency Preparedness & Response (OHSEPR) ......................................... 91

PREPaRE School Crisis Prevention And Intervention Training Curriculum, National Association 

Of School Psychologists (NASP)............................................................................................................ 91

Preparing for Disaster: The Parent View................................................................................................ 91

Points of Light....................................................................................................................................... 92

Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools (REMS): Technical Assistance Center (TA)........... 92

Ready Schools/Campus, Illinois Emergency Management Agency........................................................ 92

Safe and Sound: A Sandy Hook Initiative .............................................................................................. 92

Safety Training for Emergency Preparedness at Schools (STEPS)........................................................... 93

Scholastic .............................................................................................................................................. 93

Senior Corps.......................................................................................................................................... 93

Take 25, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC).................................................. 93

Target .................................................................................................................................................... 94

YMCA.................................................................................................................................................... 94

Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention...................................................................................... 94

Youth Service America (YSA)................................................................................................................ 94
1 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Programs
2 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

PROGRAM 0-3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Adult

Always Ready Kids • • • • • • •

American Canyon Red Cross Club • • • • • • •

American Red Cross Arizona/New 

Mexico/El Paso Regional Chapter • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

American Red Cross Utah Region Youth 

Services Program • • • • •

America's PrepareAthon! • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

AmeriCorps • •

Ark of Safety Youth • • • • • • •

Aurora Teen CERT Program • • • • • •

Be Ready Alliance Coordinating 

for Emergencies (BRACE) • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Be Ready Camp • •

Be the Beat® •

Boy Scouts, Troop 9 Petaluma, California • • • • • • • • •

California Cadet Corps • • • • • •

Camp Noah • • • • • • •

City of Anaheim Teen CERT Program • • • • • • •

City of Costa Mesa Teen CERT Program • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

City of Nashua Teen CERT • • • • • •

City of Ontario Fire Explorers Program • • • •

Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program • • • • • • •

Cobb County Safety Village • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Commander Ready Program • •

Community Emergency Response 

Network, Howard County Office of 

Emergency Management

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Eastside Technical Center • • • • • •

Explorers Post #343, Virginia Beach 

Fire Department • • • • • •

FEMA Corps • •

Fire & Emergency Services 

Career Exploring • • • • • •

Fire Corps • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Firewise in the Classroom • • •

Friscoe Fire Safety Town • • • • • • • • •

Get a Game Plan • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Get Ready Children's Workshop, 

Save the Children • • • • • • • •

PROGRAMS BY AGE
3 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

PROGRAM 0-3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Adult

Get Ready Get Safe Prep Rally, Save 

the Children • • • • • • • •

Harvest Christian Academy Teen 

CERT Club • • • • • •

Hope Scouts, Central New Jersey • • • • • • • • • •

Hope Scouts, National • • • • • • • • • •

HOSA-Future Health Professionals • • • • • •

Journey of Hope, Save the Children • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Kentucky Chemical Stockpile Emergency 

Preparedness Program • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Lake Michigan Catholic High School Teen 

CERT Program • • • • • •

Lake Superior State University/Upward 

Bound CERT Program • • • • • • •

LAPD Cadets • • • • • • •

Law Enforcement Career Exploring • • • • • •

LoneStar Emergency Services Academy • • • • • •

Long Beach Search & Rescue • • • •

Long Beach Teen CERT Program • • • • • •

Los Angeles Youth Preparedness 

Program for Schools • • • • • •

McGruff Club • • • •

Medical Reserve Corps • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Michigan Law Enforcement Youth 

Advisory Committee • • • • • •

Mid America Teen CERT • • • • • • • •

Millstone Township Fire Company 

Explorers • • • • •

Mississippi Youth Preparedness 

Initiative (MyPI) • • • • • • •

Nana's Fire and Safety School • • • • • • • • • •

National Junior Firefighter Program • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Neighborhood Watch • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

NetSmartz Workshop, National Center 

for Missing & Exploited Children • • • • • • • • • • • • •

New York City Law Enforcement Exploring • • • • •

Northeast Nevada Citizen Corps/

CERT Program • • • • • • •

Operation Rescue Ready • • • • • • •

Project 351 • •

Public Safety Support Citizen Academy • • • •

READY Camp • • • • • •

Ready Houston • • • • • • •
4 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

PROGRAM 0-3

456789 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18Adult

Ready Schools, New York City Office 

of Emergency Management

••••••••••••••

Red Cross Clubs

••••••••••••••

Redford Township Police Explorers

••••••

Resilient and Ready 

Communities Initiative

••••••••

Ridgefield Park Youth Squad

•••

Safe Kids Colorado

•••••••••••••••••

Safety Town, National

•••••••••••••••

Safety Town Santa Barbara

•••••••

San Bernardino County Fire Office 

of Emergency Services

••••••••

San Marcos High School Academy of 

Hospitality, Business and Law, Teen 

CERT Program

••••••

School Children Outreach Empowerment 

(SCORE) Program

•••••••••••

School Disaster Prepardness Program

•••••••

SHOREline

••••••

South Los Angeles Teen 

CERT Collaborative

••••••••

Simon Sanchez High School Tourism 

Academy Teen CERT Program

••••••

STEP Michigan

•••••••

Summer Service Club, Volunteer Houston

••••••

Tacoma LDS CERT Program

•••••••

Team SAFE-T (School and Family Emergency Training)

••••••••••••••

TeamHappy: Youth 

Preparedness Program

••••••••

Teens, Crime, and the Community

••••••

Texas Youth Preparedness Camp

•••••

The Urban Assembly School for 

Emergency Management

••••••

United States Power Squadrons: 

Youth Activities Committee

••••••••••

Utah HOSA

••••••

Volunteers in Police Service: 

Youth-Related Activities

•••••••••••••

Wasco Country 4-H Youth 

Development Program

•••••••••••••••

West County CERT

•••••••

Young ShelterBox Club

••••••••••

Youth Creating Disaster Recovery 

and Resilience

•••••

Youth Leadership Development Program

•••••

Youth Preparedness Council

•••••
5 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

PROGRAMS BY TOPIC

PROGRAM

Career explorationConservationCrime preventionDisaster psychologyEarthquakesFire safetyFloodsGeneral preparednessHazardous materialsHealthHurricanesMedicalPersonal growthPersonal safetyRecoveryResilienceSearch and rescueTornadosVolunteerism / Community serviceWater safetyWilderness / Survival skillsWildfiresWinter storms

Always Ready Kids l

American Canyon Red Cross Club l l l

American Red Cross Arizona/New 

Mexico/El Paso Regional Chapter l l l

American Red Cross Utah Region 

Youth Services Program l l l

America's PrepareAthon! l l l l l l l l

AmeriCorps l l l l

Ark of Safety Youth l l

Aurora Teen CERT Program l l l l l l l l

Be Ready Alliance Coordinating 

for Emergencies (BRACE) l l l l l l

Be Ready Camp l l l l

Be the Beat® l

Boy Scouts, Troop 9 

Petaluma, California l l l

California Cadet Corps l l l

Camp Noah l

City of Anaheim Teen 

CERT Program l l l l l l l l

City of Costa Mesa Teen 

CERT Program l l l l l l l l

City of Nashua Teen CERT l l l l l l l

City of Ontario Fire 

Explorers Program l l l l l l

Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program l l l l l l

Cobb County Safety Village l l l l

Commander Ready Program l

Community Emergency Response 

Network, Howard County Office 

of Emergency Management

l l

Eastside Technical Center l l l l l l l

Explorers Post #343, Virginia 

Beach Fire Department l l l l l l

FEMA Corps l l l l l l

Fire & Emergency Services 

Career Exploring l l l l l l
6 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

PROGRAM

Career explorationConservationCrime preventionDisaster psychologyEarthquakesFire safetyFloodsGeneral preparednessHazardous materialsHealthHurricanesMedicalPersonal growthPersonal safetyRecoveryResilienceSearch and rescueTornadosVolunteerism / Community serviceWater safety

Wilderness / Survival skillsWildfiresWinter storms

Fire Corps

llllll

Firewise in the Classroom

ll

Friscoe Fire Safety Town

lll

Get a Game Plan

l

Get Ready Children's 

Workshop, Save the Children

llll

Get Ready Get Safe Prep Rally, 

Save the Children

ll

Harvest Christian Academy 

Teen CERT Club

llllllll

Hope Scouts, Central New Jersey

ll

Hope Scouts, National

ll

HOSA-Future Health Professionals

llll

Journey of Hope, Save the Children

llll

Kentucky Chemical Stockpile 

Emergency Preparedness Program

ll

Lake Michigan Catholic High 

School Teen CERT Program

llllllll

Lake Superior State University/

Upward Bound CERT Program

llllllll

LAPD Cadets

llll

Law Enforcement Career Exploring

llll

LoneStar Emergency 

Services Academy

lll

Long Beach Search & Rescue

lllll

Long Beach Teen CERT Program

llllllll

Los Angeles Youth Preparedness 

Program for Schools

l

McGruff Club

ll

Medical Reserve Corps

lll

Michigan Law Enforcement 

Youth Advisory Committee

lllll

Mid America Teen CERT

llllllll

Millstone Township Fire Company 

Explorers

llllll

Mississippi Youth Preparedness 

Initiative (MyPI)

llllllll

Nana's Fire and Safety School

ll

National Junior Firefighter Program

llllll
7 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

PROGRAM

Career explorationConservationCrime preventionDisaster psychologyEarthquakesFire safetyFloodsGeneral preparednessHazardous materialsHealthHurricanesMedicalPersonal growthPersonal safetyRecoveryResilienceSearch and rescueTornadosVolunteerism / Community serviceWater safety

Wilderness / Survival skillsWildfiresWinter storms

Neighborhood Watch

lll

NetSmartz Workshop, National 

Center for Missing & Exploited 

Children

ll

New York City Law 

Enforcement Exploring

llll

Northeast Nevada Citizen 

Corps/CERT Program

llllllll

Operation Rescue Ready

lll

Project 351

l

Public Safety Support 

Citizen Academy

llllll

READY Camp

llllllll

Ready Houston

l

Ready Schools, New York City 

Office of Emergency Management

lll

Red Cross Clubs

lll

Redford Township Police Explorers

llll

Resilient and Ready 

Communities Initiative

llllll

Ridgefield Park Youth Squad

lll

Safe Kids Colorado

lllll

Safety Town, National

ll

Safety Town Santa Barbara

lllll

San Bernardino County Fire Office 

of Emergency Services

llllllll

San Marcos High School Academy 

of Hospitality, Business and 

Law, Teen CERT Program

llllllll

School Children Outreach 

Empowerment (SCORE) Program

l

School Disaster 

Prepardness Program

l

SHOREline

llll

South Los Angeles Teen 

CERT Collaborative

llllllll

Simon Sanchez High School 

Tourism Academy Teen 

CERT Program

llllllll

STEP Michigan

lll

Summer Service Club, 

Volunteer Houston

l

Tacoma LDS CERT Program

llllllll
8 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

PROGRAM

Career explorationConservationCrime preventionDisaster psychologyEarthquakesFire safetyFloodsGeneral preparednessHazardous materialsHealthHurricanesMedicalPersonal growthPersonal safetyRecoveryResilienceSearch and rescueTornadosVolunteerism / Community serviceWater safety

Wilderness / Survival skillsWildfiresWinter storms

Team SAFE-T (School and Family 

Emergency Training) l l l l l l l

TeamHappy: Youth 

Preparedness Program l l

Teens, Crime, and the Community l l l

Texas Youth Preparedness Camp l l l l l l l l l l

The Urban Assembly School 

for Emergency Management l l l

United States Power Squadrons:

Youth Activities Committee l

Utah HOSA l l l l

Volunteers in Police Service: 

Youth-Related Activities l l l l

Wasco Country 4-H Youth 

Development Program l l l

West County CERT l l l l l l l l

Young ShelterBox Club l l l

Youth Creating Disaster 

Recovery and Resilience l l l

Youth Leadership Development 

Program l l l l

Youth Preparedness Council l l l
9 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

NATIONAL

The following programs are available in multiple locations throughout the country. Please see their respective websites 

to find a local chapter (if applicable).

Always Ready Kids

ORGANIZATION: ALWAYS READY KIDS

Website: http://www.alwaysreadykids.org/Home.html

Age(s): 12–18

Topic(s): General Preparedness

Description: Always Ready Kids (ARK) was founded in 2004 and has conducted dozens of projects in several 

countries and three continents since the creation of the program. ARK’s projects include presenting on disaster 

preparedness, distributing disaster preparedness information, and making individual safety supply kits that include 

basic preparedness items. ARK also assists with disaster relief efforts. The website includes resources for youth on 

building an ARK disaster supplies kit. The ultimate goal of ARK is to catalyze a shift in our culture’s approach to 

disasters from reactive to proactive.

America’s PrepareAthon!

ORGANIZATION: FEMA

Website: www.ready.gov/prepare

Age(s): All ages

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Floods, General preparedness, Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Wildfires, Winter storms

Description: America’s PrepareAthon! is a national grassroots campaign designed to help individuals, schools, 

organizations, and communities take specific actions to increase preparedness for disasters through drills, group 

discussions, and exercises. Although preparedness events are encouraged year-round, April 30 and September 30 

are designated as National PrepareAthon! Days. The goal of America’s PrepareAthon! is to increase the number of 

individuals who understand which disasters could happen in their communities, know what to do to be safe and 

mitigate damage, take action to increase their preparedness, and participate in community resilience planning.

AmeriCorps

ORGANIZATION: CORPORATION FOR NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE (CNCS)

Website: http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps

Age(s): 18–24

Topic(s): Career exploration, General preparedness, Personal growth, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: AmeriCorps engages more than 75,000 Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, 

schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country. AmeriCorps places thousands 

of young adults into intensive service positions where they learn valuable work skills, earn money for education, 

and develop an appreciation for citizenship. AmeriCorps’ Disaster Response Teams include over 3,000 

youth members. 
10 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Be the Beat®

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

Website: http://bethebeat.heart.org

Age(s): Adult

Topic(s): Medical

Description: The American Heart Association is committed to creating the next generation of lifesavers through 

its Be the Beat program. The Be the Beat website provides free tools and resources to help teachers and school 

administrators start and sustain CPR and AED programs in schools. Through this website, teachers can download 

lesson plans and printables to teach kids the two simple steps to Hands-Only CPRTM. Students will learn to “Be the 

Beat” and pump blood to a victim’s vital organs if they see an adult or teen suddenly collapse. Hands-Only CPR can 

double or triple a victim’s chance of survival.

Cadet Program

ORGANIZATION: CIVIL AIR PATROL (CAP), U.S. AIR FORCE AUXILIARY

Website: http://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/cap_home/teens

Age(s): 12–18

Topic(s): Career Exploration, General Preparedness, Personal Growth, Search and Rescue, 

Volunteerism/Community Service, Wilderness/Survival Skills

Description: Civil Air Patrol’s Cadet Program (CAP) transforms youth into dynamic Americans and aerospace 

leaders. Cadets enjoy a challenging curriculum that emphasizes leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character. The 

program follows a military model and emphasizes Air Force traditions and values. The cadet program can help 

prepare youth for a career in aviation, space, the military, or other industries. Cadets meet two hours per week 

and one Saturday per month, on average, and also have the opportunity to attend leadership encampments, career 

academies, search and rescue schools, and international exchanges during the summer.

Camp Noah

ORGANIZATION: LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICE OF MINNESOTA

Website: http://www.campnoah.org

Age(s): 6–12

Topic(s): Resilience

Description: Camp Noah is a locally hosted event for elementary-age children whose communities have been 

impacted by disaster. Camp Noah provides a safe, caring, and fun environment where children build resiliency 

skills within the familiarity of their own communities, using a proven curriculum designed to help children 

process their disaster and/or trauma experience through creative activities and play. 

Camp Noah celebrates every child as special. In this safe and supportive setting, children are encouraged to face 

their fears, grieve their losses, identify and share their unique gifts and talents, and plan for an amazing future. 

What originally began as a response to flooding in the Red River Valley (North Dakota and Minnesota) in 1997 has 

grown into a nationally recognized program for children whose communities have been impacted by natural and 

human-caused disasters. During the past 16 years, 25 states and Puerto Rico have hosted Camp Noah.
11 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

FEMA Corps 

ORGANIZATION: CORPORATION FOR NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE 

(CNCS)/FEMA

Website: http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps/fema-corps

Age(s): 18–24 

Topic(s): Career exploration, General preparedness, Hurricanes, Personal growth, Recovery, Resilience, 

Volunteerism/Community service

Description: FEMA and the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) offer a FEMA-devoted unit 

of up to 1,600 service corps members within AmeriCorps’ National Civilian Community Corps. FEMA Corps is 

solely devoted to disaster preparedness, response, and recovery projects. While FEMA Corps teams mostly respond 

to federally declared disasters on projects pertaining to individual assistance, public assistance, planning, and 

logistics, they also support a variety of FEMA-sponsored youth preparedness initiatives including the Ready, Steady, 

Strong program. FEMA Corps also partners with other agencies such as the American Red Cross to assist with 

implementing their home fire prevention initiative and updating their national shelter database.

Fire & Emergency Services Career Exploring

ORGANIZATION: LEARNING FOR LIFE

Website: http://exploring.learningforlife.org/services/career-exploring/fire-service

Age(s): 14–20

Topic(s): Career exploration, Fire safety, Medical, Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service, Wildfires

Description: Fire and Emergency Services Career Exploring is open to young men and women who have an 

interest in learning more about careers in the fields of fire and emergency services. Fire and Emergency Services 

Exploring programs expose participants to many career experiences, leadership opportunities, and community 

service activities. The primary goals of the program are to help young adults choose a career path within fire and 

emergency services and to challenge them to become responsible citizens in their communities and country.

Fire Corps

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL VOLUNTEER FIRE COUNCIL

Website: http://www.firecorps.org

Age(s): All Ages

Topic(s): Career exploration, Fire safety, Medical, Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community 

service, Wildfires

Description: Fire Corps offers fire prevention and life-safety education and training for students to assist in 

emergency response efforts at their schools and in their communities. Fire Corps asks its volunteers to teach 

youth about their vital role in making communities safer, encouraging them to have pride in their country, gain 

an understanding of their civic duty, and accept personal responsibility for their well-being as an active member of 

the community. Local Fire Corps programs can be found at http://www.firecorps.org/volunteers/find-a-program.
12 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Get Ready Children’s Workshop

ORGANIZATION: SAVE THE CHILDREN

Website and Contact Information: http://www.savethechildren.org/GetReady and GetReady@savechildren.org

Age(s): 5–12

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, General preparedness, Personal growth, Resilience

Description: The Get Ready Children’s Workshop was created as a result of a heightened need for psychosocial 

support and preparedness for children following Hurricane Katrina. The Workshop is designed to empower 

children by normalizing evacuations and sheltering-in-place, and equipping them with basic knowledge and skills. 

Led by trained facilitators, the Get Ready Children’s Workshop is structured for use in a classroom setting for a 

group of up to 30 children. The curriculum targets children in grades kindergarten to 6 (and is best suited for 

children in grades 3–5). 

Get Ready Get Safe Prep Rally

ORGANIZATION: SAVE THE CHILDREN

Website and Contact Information: http://www.savethechildren.org/PrepRally and GetReady@savechildren.org

Age(s): 5–12

Topic(s): General preparedness, Resilience 

Description: Save the Children’s Prep Rally program helps communities prepare for emergencies so that when 

disaster strikes, families will be ready and children will be safe. It covers four basic Prep Steps: (1) Recognizing 

Risks, (2) Planning Ahead, (3) Gathering Wise Supplies, and (4) During a Disaster. Each step includes 

demonstrations, discussions, activities, and take-home materials. The curriculum is free and easy to use, and 

can be shaped to meet the specific needs of your community—whether it’s an afterschool program, summer 

camp, local fair, or the start of tornado season. Training and youth service models are available. 

Hope Scouts

ORGANIZATION: HOPE WORLDWIDE (HOPEWW)

Website: http://www.hopeww.org/national-youth-programs-overview

Age(s): 5–14

Topic(s): General preparedness, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: HOPE Worldwide (HOPEww) Scouts was founded by the group’s youngest volunteers and is aimed at 

creating opportunities for students in kindergarten through eighth grade to contribute to HOPEww programs and 

efforts in meaningful ways. HOPEww Scouts participate in a range of preparedness activities including canvassing 

at-risk neighborhoods with disaster information. Under the supervision of their HOPEww Scout Leaders, they 

routinely support local programs and distinguish themselves by their passionate service. Hope Scouts programs 

currently exist in New Jersey, Texas, and Ohio. Find a HOPEww program near you at 

http://www.hopeww.org/impact/community-service/north-american-chapter-locations.
13 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

HOSA-Future Health Professionals

ORGANIZATION: HOSA-FUTURE HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Website: http://www.hosa.org

Age(s): 14–Adult

Topic(s): Career exploration, General preparedness, Health, Medical

Description: Many HOSA chapters integrate preparedness education and training into their programs. There are 

two training programs (HOSA 105: Emergency Preparedness and HOSA 106: HOSA Strategies for Emergency 

Preparedness Competitive Events) that guide program advisors on incorporating preparedness training into 

their chapters. HOSA chapters may receive CERT training, and state- and national-level HOSA organizations hold 

competitive preparedness events, including CERT events. HOSA chapters also are encouraged to partner with local 

Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) chapters.

Journey of Hope (JOH)

ORGANIZATION: SAVE THE CHILDREN

Contact Information: GetReady@savechildren.org

Age(s): 5–18

Topic(s): CDisaster psychology, General preparedness, Recovery, Resilience

Description: Following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, many schools had limited resources for the mental health 

needs of students. In the wake of this critical gap, Save the Children created Journey of Hope (JOH) psychosocial 

programs to help children and adults cope, build on their natural resiliency, and strengthen their network of 

social support with friends and others. Knowing that part of preparedness is building resilience, Save the Children 

implements JOH in pre- and post-disaster contexts to help children cope and prepare for the next disaster. The 

program has five different versions for different age groups and caregivers. They include: Junior JOH 

(grades K–1), Elementary JOH (grades 2–5), Adolescent JOH (grades 6–8), Teen JOH (grades 9–12), and 

Care for the Caregiver JOH. 

Law Enforcement Career Exploring

ORGANIZATION: LEARNING FOR LIFE

Website: http://exploring.learningforlife.org/services/career-exploring/law-enforcement

Age(s): 14–21

Topic(s): Career exploration, Crime prevention, Personal growth, Personal safety, Volunteerism/

Community service

Description: Law Enforcement Career Exploring is open to youth who have an interest in learning more about 

careers in law enforcement. The Law Enforcement Career Exploring program provides educational training 

for young adults on the purposes, mission, and objectives of law enforcement. The program provides career 

orientation experiences, leadership opportunities, and community service activities. The primary goals of the 

program are to help young adults choose a career path within law enforcement and to challenge them to become 

responsible citizens of their communities and the Nation.
14 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

LoneStar Emergency Services Academy

ORGANIZATION: LONESTAR EMERGENCY SERVICES ACADEMY

Website: http://www.lesa1.org

Age(s): 14–Adult

Topic(s): Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service, Wilderness/Survival skills

Description: The LoneStar Emergency Services Academy offers a range of one-week in-person courses for 

youth and adults on topics such as ground search and rescue and wilderness first responder. They also have 

a flight school.

McGruff Club

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL

Website: http://www.ncpc.org/programs/mcgruff-club and http://www.mcgruff.org

Age(s): 6–10

Topic(s): Crime prevention, Personal safety

Description: The McGruff Club is a program that promotes crime prevention and safety education. Children learn 

what they can do to stay safe and to prevent crime and violence in their communities, and are encouraged to 

become engaged in their communities in service projects. Children meet weekly for 30 to 45 minutes and explore 

topics such as safe and unsafe neighborhoods, conflict management, bullying, and dangerous situations in the 

neighborhood. The clubs may also address diversity, Internet safety, guns and other weapons, and home safety. 

Children involved in the McGruff Club receive McGruff the Crime Dog items, activity sheets, safety letters from 

McGruff, and exclusive access to McGruff Club web pages that feature special games and activities. The program’s 

website offers games, advice, videos, and other resources. Information for parents and educators is also available. 

Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)

ORGANIZATION: DIVISION OF THE CIVILIAN VOLUNTEER MEDICAL RESERVE CORPS

Website: http://www.medicalreservecorps.gov

Age(s): 5–Adult

Topic(s): Health, Medical, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) units are community-based and function as a way to locally organize 

and utilize volunteers who want to donate their time and expertise to prepare for and respond to emergencies 

and promote healthy living throughout the year. MRC volunteers supplement existing emergency and public 

health resources and provide support for youth and school health education programs including promoting flu 

prevention, hygiene, CPR and first aid training, and school blood drives. Approximately 22 percent of MRC units 

allow youth (under 18) membership or have formed Junior MRC units, recognizing the important role and 

influence junior members can have in serving their communities. Local MRC units can be found at 

http://www.medicalreservecorps.gov/volunteerFldr/AboutVolunteering. 
15 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

National Junior Firefighter Program

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL VOLUNTEER FIRE COUNCIL

Website: http://juniors.nvfc.org

Age(s): 5–18

Topic(s): Career exploration, Fire safety, Medical, Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service, Wildfires

Description: The National Junior Firefighter Program allows youth to volunteer and learn about fire, rescue, and 

emergency medical service departments in their communities. The program’s website offers resources for youth 

to get involved and provides ideas for local fire departments to recruit volunteers. Youth active in the program 

can track their hours of service to receive national recognition and can apply for a variety of scholarships. Local 

programs can be found at http://juniors.nvfc.org/about.

Neighborhood Watch

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL SHERIFF’S ASSOCIATION

Website: http://www.usaonwatch.org

Age(s): All ages

Topic(s): Crime prevention, Personal safety, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Neighborhood Watch programs frequently offer programs targeted toward youth, such as athletic 

activities, drug prevention programs, and tutoring. The main goal of these programs is to provide young people 

with opportunities to increase their skills and self-esteem. Some communities have organized youth crime watch 

programs, which train students in crime prevention strategies. Additional program topics may include gun 

awareness, conflict management, peer mediation, drug and gang prevention, peer pressure, and general safety. 

Local Neighborhood Watch programs can be found at http://www.usaonwatch.org/find/watches.aspx.

Red Cross Clubs

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website: http://redcrossyouth.org

Age(s): 5–22

Topic(s): General preparedness, Medical, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Red Cross Clubs are school-based (including college-based), student-organized groups that provide 

an opportunity for youth to make a difference in their schools and communities. Clubs conduct a range of 

projects, which may include disaster preparedness topics. Local clubs can be found at 

https://volunteerconnection.redcross.org/?nd=club_listing.
16 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Resilient and Ready Communities Initiative

ORGANIZATION: SAVE THE CHILDREN

Website: http://www.savethechildren.org/atf/cf/%7B9def2ebe-10ae-432c-9bd0-df91d2eba74a%7D/

resilient-ready-communities-2010.pdf

Age(s): 5–12

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Floods, General preparedness, Hurricanes, Resilience, Wildfires

Description: The Resilient and Ready Communities initiative aims to help communities in at-risk regions meet 

new national standards and integrate best practices for supporting children’s safety and well-being through 

preparedness planning and programs. The Resilient & Ready Program is an hour-long workshop designed 

to educate children and build resiliency when faced with various forms of disasters, including earthquakes, 

hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. The workshop includes games to provide a fun, educational way for children 

to learn about preparedness. 

Safety Town

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL SAFETY TOWN CENTER

Website: http://www.nationalsafetytown.com

Age(s): 4–18

Topic(s): General preparedness, Personal safety

Description: Safety Town is a nonprofit organization that serves as a resource and coordinating agency for local 

communities to establish and conduct a Safety Town in their town and assist nursery/elementary schools, special 

education classes, and other organizations. Safety Town is dedicated solely to promoting preschool and early 

childhood safety education. It has provided speakers, information, assistance, books, and materials to over 3,500 

communities throughout the United States and 38 other countries. Millions of children, teenagers, teachers, and 

parents have benefited from the program through the efforts of National Safety Town Center and the community 

involvement within each community. The concern and dedication of the National Safety Town Center staff have 

resulted in preventing accidents and saving the lives of children. 

SHOREline

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL CENTER FOR DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, EARTH 

INSTITUTE, COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY AND DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY AND 

CENTER FOR DISASTER AND RISK ANALYSIS, COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY

Website: http://www.shoreline.ncdp.columbia.edu

Age(s): 14–19

Topic(s): General preparedness, Recovery, Resilience, Volunteerism/community service

Description: SHOREline seeks to develop a network of youth who help themselves, their families, their 

schools, their communities, and youth in other communities recover from disasters. Program participants 

work on developing tools that support disaster recovery by youth and communities. They also attend two 

yearly Youth Summits and have the opportunity to interact with local and national leaders. Interested 

students from participating schools (currently in the Gulf Coast region) can apply for inclusion in the program.
17 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Teens, Crime, and the Community

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL

Website: http://www.ncpc.org/programs/teens-crime-and-the-community/about-tcc

Age(s): 13–18

Topic(s): Crime prevention, Personal safety, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Teens, Crime, and the Community (TCC) is an initiative that works to encourage young people across 

the country to create safer schools and neighborhoods and increase social responsibility in teens through education 

and service-learning projects. TCC is comprised of two major efforts: Community Works and Youth Safety Corps 

(YSC). Community Works is a comprehensive, law-related crime prevention program that helps teens understand 

how crime affects them and their families, friends, and communities, and it involves them in crime prevention 

projects to help make their communities safer and more vital. YSC provides an opportunity for youth interested 

in public safety and crime prevention to become involved in partnerships with school resource officers, school 

personnel, and community volunteers to assist in creating safe schools and communities. 

United States Power Squadrons: Youth Activities 

Committee

ORGANIZATION: UNITED STATES POWER SQUADRONS

Website: http://www.usps.org/national/membership/youth

Age(s): 5–14

Topic(s): Water safety

Description: United States Power Squadrons introduces children to boating and water safety behaviors, including 

spotting environmental hazards and practicing smart safety and rescue techniques. The site provides games and 

activities to teach safe boating.

Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS): Youth-Related 

Activities

ORGANIZATION: INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CHIEFS OF POLICE

Website: http://www.policevolunteers.org

Age(s): 5–18

Topic(s): Career exploration, Crime prevention, Personal safety, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) offers opportunities for youth to become involved in local police 

services by participating in programs such as youth citizen academies, school-based programs such as Drug Abuse 

Resistance Education (DARE), after-school programs, and internships. Local VIPS programs also offer junior police 

academies, youth crime watch programs, youth accountability boards, youth camps, law enforcement exploring 

posts, mentoring programs, and police athletic league programs. Local VIPS programs can be found at 

http://www.policevolunteers.org/programs.
18 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Young ShelterBox Club

ORGANIZATION: SHELTERBOX USA

Website: http://www.youngshelterboxusa.org/involved.php

Age(s): 5–14

Topic(s): Conservation, General preparedness, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Young ShelterBox (YSB) Club offers youth the opportunity to prepare for disasters with 

their families and community and help make a difference for global neighbors. The YSB website also includes 

information on the causes and effects of various disasters such as tsunamis, earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and 

volcanic eruptions. 

Youth Creating Disaster Recovery and Resilience (YCDR2) 

ORGANIZATION: SCHOOL OF HUMANITARIAN STUDIES AT ROYAL ROADS 

UNIVERSITY; DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY AND CENTER FOR DISASTER AND RISK 

ANALYSIS AT COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY; SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES 

RESEARCH COUNCIL OF CANADA

Website: http://www.ycdr.org

Age(s): 15–22

Topic(s): Personal growth, Recovery, Resilience 

Description: The goal of this research project, funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council 

of Canada, is to creatively engage disaster-affected youth following disasters. Youth Creating Disaster Recovery 

& Resilience (YCDR2

) focuses on how youth can and do contribute to the post-disaster recovery process. YCDR2

aims to connect youth across communities through visual- and digital-storytelling and other creative media. 

This approach empowers and educates youth about disasters and seeks to influence the ways that communities 

incorporate youth perspectives into all disaster planning (i.e., mitigation, prevention, preparedness, response, 

and recovery) activities. This project contributes to an understanding of the ways in which social, economic, 

and personal factors influence disaster vulnerability among youth and their capacity to recover and contribute 

to long-term individual and community resilience.

Youth Preparedness Council 

ORGANIZATION: FEMA

Website: http://www.ready.gov/youth-preparedness-council

Age(s): 13–17 

Topic(s): General preparedness, Personal growth, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The FEMA Youth Preparedness Council brings together youth leaders from across the country who 

are interested and engaged in advocating for youth preparedness. The Council supports FEMA’s commitment to 

involving youth in preparedness-related activities and provides an avenue to engage the youth population, taking 

into account their perspectives, feedback, and opinions. Council members attend an annual Youth Preparedness 

Council Summit, meet periodically with FEMA representatives, and complete individual legacy projects. Council 

members are selected during an annual application process based on their dedication to public service, their efforts 

in making a difference in their communities, and their potential to expand their impact as national advocates for 

youth preparedness. 
19 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Programs By Region

Region I

FEMA Region I includes Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, 

New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. 

The contact information for Region I is as follows:

99 High Street

Boston, MA 02110

Telephone: (877) 336-2734

fema-r1-info@fema.dhs.gov

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/region-i.
20 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

MASSACHUSETTS

Project 351

ORGANIZATION: PROJECT 351

Website: http://project351.com

Age(s): 13–14

Topic(s): Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Project 351 celebrates the ethic of service, youth leadership, and the power of community to uplift 

and unite. The heart of Project 351 is the dedication and compassion of young leaders from across Massachusetts. 

Ambassadors are eighth grade students who are selected by local educators for their exemplary ethic of service 

and their values of humility, compassion, commitment, and generosity of spirit. Project 351 was launched during 

Governor Deval Patrick’s 2011 inauguration, when more than 400 youth ambassadors united to serve, develop 

leadership skills, and discuss issues critical to young people and their communities. Their 2012 day of service 

affected more than 10,000 children facing challenges in the areas of nutrition, early childhood health, and 

development and education. That success compelled the youth ambassadors to continue to seek the training, 

tools, and support of a new network of service-minded youth. 

NEW HAMPSHIRE

City of Nashua Teen CERT

ORGANIZATION: CITY OF NASHUA, NEW HAMPSHIRE OFFICE OF EMERGENCY 

MANAGEMENT

Website: http://www.nashuanh.gov/cert

Age(s): 13–18

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, Search 

and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The City of Nashua’s Office of Emergency Management sponsors a Teen CERT program that teaches 

teenagers readiness and response skills. By emphasizing hands-on practice and using realistic exercises, participants 

learn to prepare for the unexpected. Participants develop leadership skills that empower them to safely respond to 

emergencies and assist survivors without endangering themselves or others. To supplement in-class learning, the 

Nashua Office of Emergency Management provides students with course materials as well as emergency kits. This 

program can be brought to schools, clubs, and afterschool programs.
21 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Region II

FEMA Region II includes New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, and the 

US Virgin Islands. The contact information for Region II is as follows:

26 Federal Plaza

New York, NY 10278-0002

Telephone: (212) 680-3600

FEMA-R2-ExternalAffairs@fema.dhs.gov

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/region-ii. 
22 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

NEW JERSEY

Hope Scouts, Central New Jersey

ORGANIZATION: HOPE WORLDWIDE (HOPEWW)

Website: http://www.hope4jersey.org

Age(s): 5–14

Topic(s): General preparedness, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: HOPE Worldwide (HOPEww) Scouts was founded by the youngest volunteer members of the Hope 

Scouts and is aimed at creating opportunities for students in kindergarten through eighth grade to contribute to 

HOPEww programs and efforts in meaningful ways. New Jersey Scouts have worked on a variety of Hurricane 

Sandy recovery initiatives. Under the supervision of their HOPEww Scout Leaders, they routinely support local 

programs and distinguish themselves by their passionate service.

Millstone Township Fire Company Explorers

ORGANIZATION: MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP FIRE COMPANY

Website: http://www.millstonefire.com

Age(s): 14–18

Topic(s): Career exploration, Fire safety, Medical, Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service, Wildfires

Description: The Millstone Township Fire Company Explorers program introduces major elements of firefighting 

and safety to high school-age individuals. Explorers are able to use their skills and knowledge to assist firefighters 

in the field. Explorers have aided fire professionals in responding to structure fires, brush fires, car accidents, 

rescue assignments, CPR assistance, and other EMS-related incidents. 

Ridgefield Park Youth Squad

ORGANIZATION: RIDGEFIELD PARK VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE CORPS

Website: http://www.ridgefieldpark.org/oem.html

Age(s): 16–18

Topic(s): Career exploration, Medical, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Ridgefield Park Volunteer Ambulance Corps was formed to provide emergency medical care 

to the residents of Ridgefield Park. Youth Squad members join the Senior Squad on four-hour shifts where 

they respond to emergency calls and assist with patient care. Youth members play a key role in assisting with 

the maintenance and upkeep of equipment and are trained in CPR. Members have the option of taking EMT 

certification classes. 
23 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

NEW YORK

New York City Law Enforcement Exploring

ORGANIZATION: CITY OF NEW YORK POLICE DEPARTMENT

Website: http://www.nyexploring.org

Age(s): 14–20

Topic(s): Career exploration, Crime prevention, Personal safety, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Law Enforcement Exploring is a community service, career-oriented program designed to educate 

young men and women about law enforcement. Exploring reaches out to New York City's young adults in every 

community to help enhance relations between the community and the New York City Police Department. 

Explorers are taught the importance of higher education, self-discipline, and respect for authority while they 

actively participate in community service projects and other Exploring events.

Ready Schools 

ORGANIZATION: NEW YORK CITY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT (OEM)

Website: http://www.nyc.gov/html/oem/html/get_prepared/ready_schools.shtml

Age(s): 5–18

Topic(s): Fire safety, General preparedness, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Ready Schools is part of the Ready New York for Kids program, which launched in 2007 with the 

introduction of two interactive emergency preparedness guides for students. In the spring of 2009, the New York 

City Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Department of Education (DOE) introduced a pilot program 

to teach the lessons from Ready New York for Kids in schools. After a successful pilot program in Brooklyn, OEM 

and DOE launched Ready Schools in all five boroughs at the start of the 2009/2010 school year. To date, more than 

42,000 public school students have been trained in emergency preparedness at 156 schools through the Ready 

Schools program. 
24 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

The Urban Assembly School for Emergency 

Management (UASEM)

ORGANIZATION: THE URBAN ASSEMBLY SCHOOL FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Website: http://www.uasem.org

Age(s): 13–18

Topic(s): Career exploration, General preparedness, Volunteerism/Community service 

Description: The Urban Assembly School for Emergency Management (UASEM) is a public Career and Technical 

Education high school that helps students to develop complex quantitative and qualitative reasoning skills with 

an understanding of the principles of emergency management. UASEM graduates will be equipped with the skills 

necessary for entry into the emergency management field and for a college of their choice. Students engage with 

internships, collaborative simulations, student-led community training, and strong industry partnerships. It is a 

continuous learning community invested in understanding students’ needs for career and college readiness and 

developing the personal responsibility and empowerment of students, parents, and staff.
25 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Region III

FEMA Region III includes Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, 

Washington, DC, and West Virginia. 

The contact information for Region III is as follows:

615 Chestnut Street

One Independence Mall, Sixth Floor

Philadelphia, PA 19106-4404

Telephone: (215) 931-5500

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/region-iii. 
26 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

DELAWARE

School Disaster Preparedness Program

ORGANIZATION: DELAWARE CITIZEN CORPS

Website: http://www.delawarecitizencorps.org/schools

Age(s): 12–18

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: The Delaware Citizen Corps, American Red Cross of the Delmarva Peninsula, Public Health 

Preparedness, Retired Senior Volunteer Program, and Delaware Emergency Management developed the Delaware 

Disaster Preparedness Program. The goal of the program is to present students with a common message about 

the importance of preparing for all hazards. The Delaware State Police’s School Resource Officers and Youth Aid 

Officers deliver the program in schools. The initiative was first implemented in 2009 at the beginning of the 

school year, during National Preparedness Month. Currently, the program is composed of a series of five videos 

and a classroom discussion guide, and covers a variety of topics, including developing a family plan, making a 

disaster kit, shelter-in-place, and evacuation resources. 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Commander Ready Program

ORGANIZATION: SERVE DC

Website: http://readydc.org

Age(s): 9–10

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: The Commander Ready program is a specialized component of Serve DC’s Emergency Preparedness 

Initiative designed to educate and engage children in emergency preparedness. The Commander Ready curriculum 

includes activities, workshops, and an animated DVD featuring the Ready Team, and teaches children how to 

prepare for emergencies and disasters and how to prevent disaster damage. The Commander Ready program is 

conducted as an after-school program with four separate modules, each lasting 60 minutes. It is aimed at students 

in fourth and fifth grade. The website also includes resources for parents. 
27 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

MARYLAND

Community Emergency Response Network (CERN)

ORGANIZATION: HOWARD COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Website: http://www.cernhc.org

Age(s): All ages

Topic(s): General preparedness, Resilience

Description: Community Emergency Response Network (CERN) is a public-private partnership of first responders, 

nonprofit leaders, and others, with a mission to enhance community resilience through emergency preparedness 

based on knowledge, prior planning, taking reasonable precautions, and citizens helping one another. The network 

includes youth-based organizations as well as representatives from public schools and area universities. CERN’s 

mission is to engage the community to maximize emergency preparedness.

VIRGINIA

Explorers Post #343 

ORGANIZATION: VIRGINIA BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT

Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/VBFD-Explorer-Post-343/144116662422978?sk=

info&ref=page_internal

Age(s): 14–21

Topic(s): Career exploration, Fire safety, Medical, Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service, Wildfires

Description: The Virginia Beach Fire Department Explorers program, Post #343, is designed for young men and 

women interested in exploring a career in firefighting or emergency service. Explorers shadow fire department 

professionals in the field and assist with various emergency response-related tasks. 

Operation Rescue Ready

ORGANIZATION: ARLINGTON COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT (OEM)

Website: http://emergency.arlingtonva.us/2014/06/orr

Age(s): 13–Adult

Topic(s): Career exploration, Fire safety, General preparedness, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Arlington County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), along with local and national 

partners, offers teens the opportunity to learn about careers in emergency management, fire service, and public 

service encompassing leadership roles within the country. It also better prepares teenagers for what to do before, 

during, and after an emergency. The curriculum is intended to teach students, school staff, and parents readiness 

tips to use in the event of a disaster. The daylong program is generally administered during the summer months.
28 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Region IV 

FEMA Region IV includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, 

Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. 

The contact information for Region IV is as follows:

3003 Chamblee Tucker Road

Atlanta, GA 30341

Telephone: (770) 220-5200

Fax: (770) 220-5230

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/region-iv. 
29 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

ALABAMA

Be Ready Camp

ORGANIZATION: SERVE ALABAMA

Website: http://www.servealabama.gov/bereadycamp

Age(s): 11–12

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, General preparedness, Medical, Search and rescue

Description: Be Ready Camp was created to teach Alabama’s sixth graders about disaster preparedness and 

response. Topics range from fire safety to light search and rescue. The camp includes hands-on demonstrations 

and culminates with a mock disaster. All Alabama residents entering the sixth grade are eligible to attend and 

participants are chosen through a competitive application process.

FLORIDA

Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies 

(BRACE)

ORGANIZATION: BE READY ALLIANCE COORDINATING FOR EMERGENCIES

Website: http://www.bereadyalliance.org

Age(s): 5–18

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Personal growth, Recovery, 

Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies (BRACE) engages the community in disaster 

preparedness, response, and recovery. The organization offers CERT training for teens, as well as volunteer 

opportunities. BRACE also hosts an annual Youth Emergency Preparedness Expo with emergency preparedness 

information and demonstrations.
30 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

GEORGIA

Cobb County Safety Village

ORGANIZATION: COBB COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Website: www.cobbcountyga.gov/safetyvillage

Age(s): All ages

Topic(s): Crime prevention, Fire safety, General preparedness, Personal Safety

Description: Cobb County Safety Village is an eight-acre safety-training environment where residents of all ages 

and the business community gain knowledge about public health, safety, and emergency preparedness through 

hands-on experiences. The Village features reduced-scale buildings on street replicas including sidewalks, traffic 

signals, and other local structures and landmarks. The Village includes four areas that help teach children how to 

react in emergency situations such as fire, crime, and disasters.

KENTUCKY

Eastside Technical Center

ORGANIZATION: FAYETTE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Website: http://www.eastside.fcps.net

Age(s): 13–18 

Topic(s): Career exploration, Crime prevention, Fire safety, General preparedness, Health, Medical, Personal safety

Description: The Eastside Technical Center uses college, professional-responder based, and FEMA developed 

curricula to educate high school students interested in careers in the emergency management community. 

Participants can take courses related to terrorism awareness, criminal justice, emergency management, emergency 

medical services, fire sciences, field-based forensic sciences, and law enforcement. These courses prepare students 

for post-secondary education, military service, and professional services. Students participate in demanding 

physical training that follows standards established for law enforcement and firefighting personnel. Students who 

successfully complete the program have the opportunity to earn up to six federal professional certifications.
31 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Kentucky Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness 

Program (CSEPP)

ORGANIZATION: KENTUCKY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Website: http://csepp.ky.gov

Age(s): 5–Adult

Topic(s): Career exploration, Hazardous materials

Description: The Kentucky Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP) seeks to educate 

students, at all grade levels, on emergency planning and hazardous-material disaster response. CSEPP officials are 

available to visit students from elementary school to high school. CSEPP also conducts new student orientation 

programs for college students where they explain available preparedness resources. In September, CSEPP hosts 

an annual exercise, open to students, to help individuals develop situational awareness in hazardous-material 

emergencies. CSEPP is also able to conduct outreach to groups with limited English proficiency. 

MISSISSIPPI

Mississippi Youth Preparedness Initiative (MyPI)

ORGANIZATION: MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY

Website: http://mypi.msstate.edu

Age(s): 13–19

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Mississippi Youth Preparedness Initiative (MyPI) is a 10-week program, including two 

Saturday sessions, during which Mississippi teens complete Teen CERT training and CPR and automated external 

defibrillator (AED) certification. The program also includes leadership and technology concepts and a career 

exploration track. Highlighting the program is a comprehensive service project entitled Prep + 6 in which each 

participant helps develop emergency kits and emergency communication plans for their family and six other 

families. MyPI hopes to directly impact the lives of over 121,000 families across Mississippi by 2018.
32 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Region V

FEMA Region V includes Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, 

Ohio, and Wisconsin. 

The contact information for Region V is as follows:

536 South Clark Street, 

Sixth Floor

Chicago, IL 60605

Telephone: (312) 408-5500

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/region-v. 
33 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

MICHIGAN

Lake Michigan Catholic High School Teen CERT Program

ORGANIZATION: LAKE MICHIGAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

Website: http://www.lmclakers.com

Age(s): 13–18

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, Search and 

rescue, Volunteerism/Community service 

Description: The Lake Michigan Catholic High School Teen CERT is comprised of local students from Lake 

Michigan Catholic High School. It includes all four grade levels in the high school. The organizers hold an annual 

class to increase membership in the program. The team is ready for deployment should an emergency happen at 

the school. 

Lake Superior State University/Upward Bound 

CERT Program

ORGANIZATION: UPWARD BOUND AT LAKE SUPERIOR STATE UNIVERSITY

Website: http://www.citizencorps.fema.gov/cc/showCert.do?id=53219

Age(s): 13–Adult

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Lake Superior State University Upward Bound (LSSU/UB) sponsors a CERT program for high school 

and college students in Chippewa County, Michigan. Students train in first aid, CPR, emergency preparedness, light 

search and rescue, and setting up medical triage areas to support first responders. Members also conduct public 

emergency-preparedness awareness activities, assist at community events (most often by running first aid booths), 

train other groups (such as local scouts), and mentor local elementary school students by sharing their knowledge 

and creating “jump kits” (basic emergency preparedness kits) for the students to share with their families. The 

LSSU/UB CERT members include high school students from Rudyard, Pickford, Brimley, and Sault Ste. Marie Area 

Schools and college students from Lake Superior State University.
34 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Michigan Law Enforcement Youth Advisory Academy

ORGANIZATION: MICHIGAN LAW ENFORCEMENT YOUTH ADVISORY 

COMMITTEE (MLEYAC)

Website: http://mleyac.org

Age(s): 14–20

Topic(s): Career exploration, Crime prevention, Health, Personal safety, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Michigan Law Enforcement Youth Advisory Academy is a camp that serves as a miniaturized 

version of a regular police academy and is geared toward youth exploring the possibility of a career in law 

enforcement. The seven-day camp is sponsored and run by the Michigan Law Enforcement Youth Advisory 

Committee (MLEYAC). Youth are required to follow basic military guidelines such as properly addressing senior 

staff and certain academy officers are required to be saluted. Recruits are required to participate in physical 

training every day. Each youth is placed in a platoon where their “drill instructors” teach them the core values of 

teamwork, dedication, quality, and service. Recruits graduate once they have met the minimum requirements and 

passed all applicable tests.

Redford Township Police Explorers

ORGANIZATION: REDFORD TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT

Website and Contact Information: http://www.redfordtwp.com/police-explorer.php and Jennifer Mansfield, 

jmansfield2@redfordpd.org

Age(s): 14–20

Topic(s): Career exploration, Crime prevention, Personal safety, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Redford Township Police Explorers are dedicated to providing the community’s youth with 

training and experiences geared toward a career in law enforcement. The Exploring program introduces members 

to police skills, including traffic stops, domestic violence and accident investigations, and tactical building 

searches. Explorers are further exposed to police work through support activities at township festivals and parades, 

sponsored outings to courts and jails, and ride-alongs with officers after reaching 18 years of age. Police Explorers 

attend boot camp-style training academies and compete in statewide competitions. Leadership, discipline, and 

community service are instilled in members through training, competitions, and township events. The Redford 

Township Police Explorers participate in Goodfellows events, Shop with a Cop, and Relay for Life, and even 

sponsor a Halloween Candy Scan for the Township’s children.
35 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

STEP Michigan

ORGANIZATION: MICHIGAN STATE POLICE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT & HOMELAND SECURITY DIVISION

Website: http://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-60152---,00.html

Age(s): 13–Adult

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Fire safety, General preparedness

Description: All fifth grade classes in Michigan are eligible to participate in the Student Tools for Emergency 

Planning (STEP) program. STEP is a simple and effective curriculum available from FEMA. Designed by teachers, 

STEP aims to educate fourth- and fifth-graders on the importance of preparing for emergencies and provides 

students with the knowledge to help their families prepare. Materials include instructor guides, DVDs, copies of 

student handouts, and starter kit backpacks for all participating students. All materials are provided at no cost to 

the school. 

OHIO

Public Safety Support Citizen Academy 

ORGANIZATION: FRANKLIN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE/FRANKLIN COUNTY 

HOMELAND SECURITY

Website: https://sheriff.franklincountyohio.gov/programs/explorer-program.cfm

Age(s): 16–21

Topic(s): Career exploration, Crime prevention, Fire safety, Medical, Personal safety, 

Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Public Safety Support Citizen Academy offers opportunities in character building, leadership, 

homeland security, police and fire response, emergency response, and preparedness. Youth are exposed to a range 

of public safety career options while gaining practical hands-on experience upon graduation from the eight-week 

training program. Completion of training prepares participants to provide support to public safety forces during 

disasters as well as volunteer opportunities during special and routine events. 
36 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

WISCONSIN 

READY Camp

ORGANIZATION: CENTER FOR SCHOOL, YOUTH AND CITIZEN PREPAREDNESS

Website: http://www.citizenpreparedness.org/ready_camp.html

Age(s): 13–18

Topic(s): Career exploration, General preparedness, Health, Medical, Personal growth, Personal safety, 

Recovery, Volunteerism/Community service 

Description: The Responding to Emergencies and Disasters with Youth (READY) camp is coordinated by the 

Center for School, Youth and Citizen Preparedness. Students learn about their potential role in preparing for, 

responding to, and recovering from an emergency situation, and have the opportunity to put what they’ve learned 

to use in a mock disaster exercise. The program has taught hundreds of students the skills they need to stabilize 

any injuries they may have suffered before moving on to assist others during and after emergency situations until 

professionals arrive. 

Students also learn to identify the hazards most likely to occur and reduce potential hazards in and around 

their homes and schools. They receive training in safety and injury prevention, first aid, CPR, and the use of an 

automatic external defibrillator (AED). The program also teaches youth how to respond to natural and manmade 

disasters and develops their leadership skills to affect change through higher education after graduation. Youth are 

encouraged to lead community prevention efforts, increase their interest in health and public safety careers, and 

volunteer in their communities through service learning projects.
37 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Region VI

FEMA Region VI includes Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, 

and Texas. The contact information for Region VI is as follows:

FRC 800 North Loop 288

Denton, TX 76209-3698

Telephone: (940) 898-5399

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/region-vi.
38 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

LOUISIANA

Get a Game Plan

ORGANIZATION: THE LOUISIANA GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF HOMELAND SECURITY 

& EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS (GOHSEP)

Website: http://getagameplan.org/planKids.htm

Age(s): 5–18

Topic(s): General preparedness 

Description: The Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness’ (GOHSEP) Get 

a Game Plan initiative provides resources that families can use to develop emergency management plans. The Get 

a Game Plan initiative is complemented by a smartphone app that includes an emergency checklist, sheltering 

information, and the locations of evacuation zones. GOHSEP also supports youth preparedness education by 

conducting regular drills and training exercises. 

TeamHappy: Youth Preparedness Program

ORGANIZATION: TEAM HAPPY FOUNDATION

Website: http://www.teamhappy.org/programs/youthpreparedness

Age(s): 6–12

Topic(s): General preparedness, Personal safety

Description: This program teaches youth how to make a family plan, build a safety kit, and stay informed about 

disasters. The interactive book, The Adventures of Happy & Big Wanda, serves as the curriculum core, and includes a 

hurricane preparedness checklist, a word search, a fill-in-the-blank puzzle, and coloring pages. Students take home 

individual worksheets and recite the Safety Pledge, making a personal commitment to encourage their family and 

peers to become better prepared for disasters.
39 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

NEW MEXICO

American Red Cross Arizona/New Mexico/El Paso 

Regional Chapter

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website and Contact Information: http://www.redcross.org/az/phoenix/volunteer/youth-youngadult-services and volunteers.gcc.az@redcross.org

Age(s): 3–22

Topic(s): General preparedness, Medical, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The American Red Cross Arizona/New Mexico/El Paso Regional Chapter is dedicated to providing 

young people with leadership development through meaningful service opportunities in local, national, and 

international programs. Youth and young adults may engage with the regional chapter as volunteers or through 

youth clubs in schools and communities. Programs are available for elementary school, middle school, 

high school, and college-age students in New Mexico. 

Nana’s Fire and Safety School

ORGANIZATION: NANA’S FIRE AND SAFETY SCHOOL

Website: http://www.nanastown.com

Age(s): 5–14

Topic(s): Fire Safety, Personal safety

Description: Nana’s Fire and Safety School offers a fun and exciting place to teach individuals about the kinds of 

accidents that harm America’s children every day. The school focuses on issues like fire prevention, bicycle and 

pedestrian safety, motor vehicle safety for children as passengers, and the dangers of speaking to strangers. Housed 

in a tiny village being built at the heart of Permian Basin Regional Training Center, the school is sized for little 

learners, with streets and buildings set at their level. The school is sponsored through generous donations from 

area businesses and civic organizations.
40 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

TEXAS

American Red Cross Arizona/New Mexico/El Paso 

 Regional Chapter

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website and Contact Information: http://www.redcross.org/az/phoenix/volunteer/youth-young-adult-services

and volunteers.gcc.az@redcross.org

Age(s): 3–22

Topic(s): General preparedness, Medical, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The American Red Cross Arizona/New Mexico/El Paso Regional Chapter is dedicated to providing 

young people with leadership development through meaningful service opportunities in local, national, and 

international programs. Youth and young adults may engage with the regional chapter as volunteers or through 

youth clubs in schools and communities. Programs are available for elementary school, middle school, high 

school, and college-age students in Texas. 

Friscoe Fire Safety Town

ORGANIZATION: FRISCOE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Website: http://www.friscotexas.gov/departments/fire/Pages/default.aspx

Age(s): 3–11

Topic(s): Fire safety, General preparedness, Personal safety

Description: Frisco Fire Safety Town has programs designed for children who are attending or have completed 

kindergarten through fifth grades. Safe and Sound Walk-Around educational tours are available daily for families 

to attend and learn various safety messages. Frisco Fire Safety Town teaches children about safety in a fun and 

interactive environment. Year-round safety education classes are run by the Frisco Fire Department and focus on 

teaching students how to prevent injuries and stay safe. Since opening in January 2007, the program has welcomed 

over 300,000 participants.

Ready Houston

ORGANIZATION: CITY OF HOUSTON MAYOR’S OFFICE OF PUBLIC SAFETY & HOMELAND SECURITY 

Website: http://www.readyhoustontx.gov/schoolready/index.html

Age(s): 5–11

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: Ready Houston materials include classroom lessons and take-home activities divided into three 

modules (grades K–1, 2–3, and 4–5). The lessons can be used for a one-day activity or as a complete unit over 

several days. The lessons offer an opportunity for a school-wide program. Each element of the curriculum serves 

to reinforce the core message of Make a Plan, Build a Kit, and Stay Informed.
41 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Summer Service Club

ORGANIZATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSTON 

Website: http://www.VolunteerHouston.org

Age(s): 13–18

Topic(s): Volunteerism/Community Service

Description: The Volunteer Houston Summer Service Club is a summer program from July to August that enables 

students to participate in volunteer projects at numerous Houston area nonprofits. The youth-friendly projects 

are supervised on site by Volunteer Houston staff in partnership with each nonprofit agency. Students work as a 

team to complete a service project in half a day or less. This summer experience gives students the opportunity 

to explore how their efforts help strengthen and support the community. Students may participate in as many 

projects as they desire. Projects are offered at various times, days, and locations. There is a fee associated with 

student participation.

Texas Youth Preparedness Camp 

ORGANIZATION: TEXAS SCHOOL SAFETY CENTER-TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY

Website: http://txssc.txstate.edu/events/youth-preparedness-camp

Age(s): 14–18

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Health, Medical, Personal growth, Personal 

safety, Resilience, Search and rescue, Volunteerism/community service

Description: The Texas School Safety Center’s Youth Preparedness Camp is designed and delivered using a 

youth-led, adult-assisted process. A youth-led, adult-assisted model is one where students are essentially the 

decision makers and the adults act in a supportive role. Participants (including their adult sponsor) receive a 

20-hour CERT training, develop a community action plan as a team, and acquire the leadership skills needed to 

address emergency preparedness in their schools and/or communities when they return home—all of which 

is achieved while having one of the most exciting weeks of summer! The mission of the Center's program is to 

increase emergency preparedness in Texas communities by providing youth with emergency response, action 

planning, and leadership skills that enhance their capacity to assist their local communities in creating a culture 

of preparedness. 
42 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Region VII

FEMA Region VII includes Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. 

The contact information for Region VII is as follows:

9221 Ward Parkway 

Suite 300

Kansas City, MO 64114-3372

Telephone: (816) 283-7061

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/region-vii.
43 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

MISSOURI

Mid America Teen CERT 

ORGANIZATION: MID AMERICA TEEN CERT 

Website: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MIDAMERICATEENCERT and http://www.linkedin.com/groups/

Mid-America-TEEN-CERT-4436135

Age(s): 12–Adult

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service 

Description: Mid America Teen CERT (MATC) is designed to teach young adults ages 12 and older, including 

adults, to be prepared to assist the community and emergency services in the event of an emergency or natural 

disaster. The program also teaches students to be prepared to assist their families, neighborhoods, schools, 

churches, and workplaces with basic response skills. Classes are facilitated by fire and police departments, 

emergency management agencies, and other professionals in partnership with MATC instructors to cover several 

key areas, such as disaster preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue, team 

organization, disaster psychology, and terrorism.
44 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Region VIII

FEMA Region VIII includes Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South 

Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. 

The contact information for Region VIII is as follows:

Denver Federal Center

Building 710, Box 25267

Denver, CO 80225-0267

Telephone: (303) 235-4800

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/region-viii.
45 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

COLORADO

Aurora Teen CERT Program

ORGANIZATION: AURORA OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Website: https://www.auroragov.org/LivingHere/YouthResources/EmergencyPreparednessforYouth/index.htm

Age(s): 13–18

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Aurora Office of Emergency Management offers Teen CERT within the city of Aurora and can 

work with interested parties to identify interest and participation, set up classes, and bring in subject matter 

experts to instruct classes. 

Safe Kids Colorado

ORGANIZATION: CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL COLORADO

Website: http://www.safekids.org/coalition/safe-kids-colorado

Age(s): 0–19

Topic(s): General preparedness, Health, Medical, Personal safety, Volunteerism/community service

Description: Safe Kids Colorado is a coalition led by Children's Hospital Colorado, which provides dedicated and 

caring staff, operational support, and other resources to assist in achieving its common goal: keeping kids safe. 

This coalition is a partnership of individuals and organizations including hospitals, schools, law enforcement 

personnel, fire personnel, emergency medical services personnel, public health personnel, youth-serving 

organizations, parents and caregivers, and many others who share a common mission of preventing unintentional 

injuries to children. The coalition educates families and provides resources on topics like car seat safety, the 

dangers of carbon monoxide, and poison prevention.
46 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

UTAH

American Red Cross Utah Region Youth 

Services Program

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website: http://www.redcross.org/utah/volunteer/youth-volunteers/youth-services-program

Age(s): 14–18

Topic(s): General preparedness, Medical, Volunteerism/community service

Description: The American Red Cross Utah Region Youth Services Program encourages youth preparedness and 

promotes community service and leadership development. There are three Youth Services Groups in Utah that 

make up the whole Youth Services Family: Salt Lake, Provo, and Ogden. In each area, a group of youth meets 

monthly to learn, teach, get involved, and be part of something greater than themselves. 

Utah HOSA

ORGANIZATION: HOSA: FUTURE HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Website: http://www.schools.utah.gov/ate/hst/hosa.html

Age(s): 12–17

Topic(s): Career Exploration, General preparedness, Health, Medical 

Description: Utah HOSA is the Utah State chapter of National HOSA. Utah HOSA is a career and technical student 

organization endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and the Health Science Education Division of the 

Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE). The two-fold mission of HOSA is to promote career 

opportunities in the healthcare industry and to enhance the delivery of quality healthcare to all people. Utah 

HOSA provides students with opportunities to attain the knowledge, skills, and leadership characteristics necessary 

to succeed in a healthcare profession through regular training sessions and networking events. Utah HOSA also 

periodically hosts competitions on topics like public health emergency preparedness, biomedical issues, and 

researched persuasive speaking.
47 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Region IX

FEMA Region IX includes Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, American Samoa, 

Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Republic of the 

Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia. 

The contact information for Region IX is as follows:

1111 Broadway 

Suite 1200

Oakland, CA 94607-4052

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/fema-region-ix.
48 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

ARIZONA

American Red Cross Arizona/New Mexico/El Paso 

Regional Chapter

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website and Contact Information: http://www.redcross.org/az/phoenix/volunteer/youth-young-adult-services

and volunteers.gcc.az@redcross.org

Age(s): 3–22

Topic(s): General preparedness, Medical, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The American Red Cross Arizona/New Mexico/El Paso Regional Chapter is dedicated to providing 

young people with leadership development through meaningful service opportunities in local, national, and 

international programs. Youth and young adults may engage with the regional chapter as volunteers or through 

youth clubs in schools and communities. Programs are available for elementary school-, middle school-, high 

school-, and college-age students in Arizona. 

CALIFORNIA

Ark of Safety Youth

ORGANIZATION: BUILDING RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

Website: http://www.buildingresilientcommunities.org/disaster-preparedness/ark-of-safety-youth

Age(s): 12–18 

Topic(s): General preparedness, Volunteerism/Community service 

Description: Based in Beaumont, California, the Ark of Safety Youth program is designed to include faith-based 

organizations, schools, and community centers across the state in the disaster preparedness process. An Ark of 

Safety program is also available for adults. Youth participants learn how to prepare themselves, their homes, and 

their communities for disasters. Youth members are eligible to participate in disaster education learning labs 

and workshops, and to engage with first responders. The Ark of Safety program encourages youth to become 

interested in volunteerism and emergency services careers, and it supports their education in the fields of science, 

technology, engineering, and math. 
49 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

American Canyon Red Cross Club

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website: https://volunteerconnection.redcross.org/?nd=club_detail&club_id=1042&return_jid=12785612 

Age(s): 13–18 

Topic(s): General preparedness, Medical, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The American Canyon Red Cross Club is an officially recognized club at American Canyon High 

School. The club is led by students who want to serve their community through service, education, and leadership 

as volunteers of the American Red Cross. Club members participate in activities such as service projects and 

preparedness trainings. The club works with the support and guidance of the local Red Cross chapter and 

collaborates with other clubs to plan and execute service projects and fundraising events. The club promotes the 

Red Cross’ humanitarian mission and CPR, first aid, and youth education programs.

Boy Scouts, Troop 9 Petaluma, California 

ORGANIZATION: BOY SCOUTS, TROOP 9, PETALUMA, CALIFORNIA

Contact Information: john.w.schempf@uscg.mil

Age(s): 10–18 

Topic(s): General preparedness, Personal growth, Volunteerism/Community service 

Description: The Boy Scouts of Troop 9 Petaluma, California are committed to reaching out to the surrounding 

community to involve and educate those that are not part of scouting on various preparedness topics. In particular, 

Troop 9 is committed to becoming emergency preparedness specialists for its local community. Troop 9 interacts 

with other troops, schools, and community groups. The Troop regularly hosts demonstrations and provides 

informational handouts at community events.

California Cadet Corps

ORGANIZATION: CALIFORNIA CADET CORPS 

Website: http://www.cadet.org

Age(s): 14–20 

Topic(s): Health, Medical, Personal growth

Description: The California Cadet Corps’ mission is to provide California schools and students with a quality 

educational and leadership development program that prepares students for success in college and the workforce. 

The program’s curriculum includes topics such as first aid, CPR, health education, physical fitness, and citizenship. 
50 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

City of Anaheim Teen CERT Program

ORGANIZATION: CITY OF ANAHEIM

Website: http://www.anaheim.net/title/fire/cert

Age(s): 13–19 

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, Search and 

rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The City of Anaheim provides a 20-hour CERT training program to youth. The training is specifically 

tailored to meet the needs of youth while still covering the CERT curriculum. Lessons are designed to include 

hands-on training and team activities.

City of Costa Mesa Teen CERT Program

ORGANIZATION: CITY OF COSTA MESA FIRE DEPARTMENT

Website: http://www.costamesaca.gov/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentid=11772

Age(s): 5–18 

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, Search and 

rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The City of Costa Mesa, along with its fire and police agencies, continues to actively pursue youth 

preparedness initiatives, dedicated programs, and activities to support a culture of preparedness in the community. 

The city provides Teen CERT training at two local high schools, is launching a Teen CERT program customized to 

middle school-age children, and holds school presentations and events for elementary school-age children. Costa 

Mesa also holds CERT Family Weekend trainings and works with youth-serving organizations to encourage them 

to conduct preparedness events. In particular, they work with youth programs in the faith community to spread 

preparedness information through Ready Sunday events and other outreach.

City of Ontario Fire Explorers Program

ORGANIZATION: CITY OF ONTARIO

Website: http://www.ci.ontario.ca.us/index.aspx?page=306

Age(s): 14–17 

Topic(s): Career exploration, Fire safety, Medical, Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service, Wildfires

Description: The City of Ontario Fire Explorers program is geared toward young adults interested in learning 

about a career in the fire service. After meeting the program’s entrance requirements, members are given 

an opportunity to qualify for a 12-day training academy held on six consecutive weekends. At the academy, 

participants are trained by professional firefighters and will learn: firefighting skills, hose lay evolutions, ladder 

techniques, salvage operations, wild land firefighting procedures, proper use of firefighting tools and equipment, 

breathing apparatus use, and other related subjects. Upon graduation from the academy, participants are qualified 

to ride along on an engine or truck with a paramedic squad and respond to actual fire and medical emergencies. 
51 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Firewise in the Classroom

ORGANIZATION: LASSEN COUNTY FIRE SAFE COUNCIL, INC.

Website: http://www.lassenfiresafecouncil.org

Age(s): 11–13

Topic(s): Fire safety, Wildfires

Description: Wildfires are a particular risk in Lassen County, and the Firewise in the Classroom program 

teaches sixth-grade students about wildfire safety and preparedness. All schools in the county participate in the 

program, which is presented by the classroom teachers. The program is a one-week curriculum that includes the 

presentation of five, one-hour classroom sessions. The program provides for classroom discussion, participation, 

and a small amount of homework. One of the homework assignments requires the students to work with their 

families to develop their own family disaster plans.

LAPD Cadets

ORGANIZATION: LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT (LAPD)

Website: http://www.lapdcadets.com

Age(s): 13–20 

Topic(s): Career exploration, Crime prevention, Personal safety, Volunteerism/Community service 

Description: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Cadet Program is designed to offer youth an opportunity 

to develop skills that will help them throughout their lives. The program is offered at each of the 21 community 

police stations across the city, as well as at two specialized divisions—the Metropolitan Division and the 

Communications Division. The program allows youth to provide community service while working with law 

enforcement. 

Long Beach Search & Rescue 

ORGANIZATION: LONG BEACH SEARCH & RESCUE 

Website: http://www.lbsar.org

Age(s): 15–18 

Topic(s): Career exploration, Fire safety, General preparedness, Search and rescue, 

Volunteerism/Community service 

Description: This Learning for Life Explorers Post provides training and response opportunities for young adults. 

Training topics include fire suppression, search patterns, and vehicle extrication, and members provide support for 

events such as missing person searches and natural disasters. 
52 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Long Beach Teen CERT Program

ORGANIZATION: LONG BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT AND LONG BEACH 

POLYTECHNIC HIGH SCHOOL

Website: http://www.longbeach.gov/fire

Age(s): 13–18 

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Long Beach Fire Department and Long Beach Polytechnic High School partner to offer a Teen 

CERT training program. With a focus on disaster preparedness, the training is designed for community members. 

In the event of a natural disaster, police, fire, and medical services can be overwhelmed. CERT training is designed 

to teach the public how to care for themselves and others until professional help arrives. The program has received 

recognition from the mayor and the city council of Long Beach.

Los Angeles Youth Preparedness Program for Schools 

ORGANIZATION: CITY OF LOS ANGELES, EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 

AND RADIO DISNEY

Website: http://emergency.lacity.org/index.htm

Age(s): 5–10 

Topic(s): General preparedness 

Description: The City of Los Angeles, Emergency Management Department and Radio Disney work together on 

a program to teach elementary school-age children about preparedness. The interactive program includes songs, 

dancing, games, and other activities to keep the children engaged and interested. The program builds connections 

between the City of Los Angeles, Emergency Management Department and local elementary schools and their 

principals.

Safety Town Santa Barbara

ORGANIZATION: SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF SANTA BARBARA

Website: www.sbsafetytown.org

Age(s): 5–11

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Fire safety, General preparedness, Personal safety, Water safety

Description: Through movies, songs, and guest visits, the Safety Town Santa Barbara program trains children to 

differentiate between “safe” and “unsafe.” Under the guidance of volunteer youth instructors and credentialed 

teachers, children practice and experience their lessons in Safety Town, a miniature city layout built to the scale 

of a small child. Safety Town is a 17.5-hour course offered over the course of a week. Topics discussed during the 

week relate to pedestrian safety, earthquake safety, fire safety, bicycle safety, water safety, drug abuse, and personal 

and home safety. Children meet with community safety professionals such as police, firefighters, forest rangers, 

paramedics, water safety professionals, and others.
53 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

San Bernardino County Fire Office of Emergency 

Services (County OES) 

ORGANIZATION: COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO

Website: http://www.sbcfire.org/oes

Age(s): 10–17 

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The San Bernardino County Fire Office of Emergency Services (County OES) is responsible for 

disaster planning and emergency management coordination throughout San Bernardino County. County OES 

promotes youth preparedness via Teen CERT programs across the county’s school districts. Additionally, County 

OES conducts emergency preparedness trainings for school groups, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and religious youth 

groups. These programs are offered in both English and Spanish. 

South Los Angeles Teen CERT Collaborative

ORGANIZATION: LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT

Contact Information: Solateencert@gmail.com

Age(s): 12–19

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The South Los Angeles Teen CERT Collaborative facilitates CERT training to at-risk youth in vulnerable 

communities, and fosters partnerships with faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, youthserving organizations, houses of worship, and government agencies to coordinate preparedness initiatives. The 

South Los Angeles Teen CERT Collaborative also partners with the American Red Cross-Los Angeles Region to offer 

community CPR and first aid trainings to youth in high-risk communities. In communities where many youth 

fight the statistical odds just to survive, these efforts provide them with a vision of hope for their community, 

while promoting harm reduction.
54 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Team SAFE-T

ORGANIZATION: CALIFORNIA PARTNERSHIP FOR SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS

Website: http://www.teamsafe-t.org

Age(s): 5–18

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Fire safety, General preparedness, Health, Medical, Personal growth, Personal safety

Description: Developed in response to the September 11 terrorist attacks, Team SAFE-T (School and Family 

Emergency Training) is an alliance of public and private organizations that joined together to increase education 

and awareness in response to various natural and manmade emergencies and disasters throughout California. The 

Team SAFE-T Partnership is dedicated to serving the citizens of California by providing a free, fully integrated 

health, safety, and character curriculum, along with comprehensive family support materials accessible in seven 

languages.

Administered through California’s schools, Team SAFE-T reaches students and families through an annualized 

standards-based curriculum and support materials developed to give easy-to-understand, age-appropriate 

instruction. The program includes lessons on school culture, anti-violence, attendance, all-hazard preparedness, 

character, and first aid. Team SAFE-T is the key educational component of California’s disaster preparedness 

campaign, Be Smart, Be Responsible, Be Prepared, Be Ready!

West County CERT

ORGANIZATION: WEST COUNTY

Website: https://westcountycacert.samariteam.com

Age(s): 13–Adult

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: West County CERT is a community-oriented disaster preparedness program for residents of Buena 

Park, Cypress, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, and Westminster. The program educates youth and adults about 

disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and about basic disaster response skills such as fire 

safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned 

in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhoods or workplaces in 

situations when professional responders may not immediately be available to help. 

Youth Leadership Development Program

ORGANIZATION: CHINATOWN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Website: http://www.chinatowncdc.org

Age(s): 14–18

Topic(s): Earthquakes, General preparedness, Personal growth, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Chinatown Community Development Center (Chinatown CDC) offers a variety of opportunities for 

youth to get involved in community issues. These programs are primarily youth-led, so they foster both leadership 

and community service. The Youth for SROs Program (YSRO) provides opportunities for high school students to 

engage with seniors living in single room occupancy (SRO) hotels. Youth volunteer to give disaster preparedness 

workshops and materials to hundreds of residents of Single Room Occupancy Hotels in San Francisco’s Chinatown.
55 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

GUAM

School Children Outreach Empowerment 

(SCORE) Program

ORGANIZATION: GUAM DEPARTMENT OF YOUTH AFFAIRS®

Website: http://dya.guam.gov

Age(s): 8–18 

Topic(s): Personal growth

Description: The Guam Department of Youth Affairs School Children Outreach (SCORE) Program is designed to 

divert at-risk youth from entering Guam’s Juvenile Justice System and to divert those already in the system through 

additional enrichment programs. The SCORE program is available upon request. 

Harvest Christian Academy CERT Club

ORGANIZATION: HARVEST CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (HCA)

Website: https://www.hbcguam.net/harvest-christian-academy.html

Age(s): 13–18 

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Harvest Christian Academy (HCA) CERT Club is intended to keep HCA students, faculty members 

and staff, and their respective families safe before and during a disaster, and to help their respective families and 

neighbors after a disaster strikes. Through the development and implementation of the HCA CERT Club, students 

learn to make use of their talents and wisdom to better prepare HCA for emergencies and disasters, both manmade 

and natural.

San Marcos High School Academy of Hospitality, 

Business and Law, Teen CERT Program

ORGANIZATION: SAN MARCOS HIGH SCHOOL

Website: http://www.smcisd.net

Age(s): 13–18

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: San Marcos High School has incorporated a Teen CERT training program in all of its introductory 

public safety courses. Students not only learn the CERT curriculum, they also practice the techniques demonstrated 

in the CERT manual. This curriculum has elevated the importance of youth preparedness in both the school 

district and the community. The program has allowed students to assume positions of leadership and serve as 

mentors to younger community members. 
56 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Simon Sanchez High School Tourism Academy 

Teen CERT Program

ORGANIZATION: SIMON SANCHEZ HIGH SCHOOL TOURISM ACADEMY

Website: http://simonsanchez.org/emergency-response-training-for-25-tourism-academy-students

Age(s): 13–18

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: By participating in Guam’s Teen CERT training, students at Simon Sanchez High School Tourism 

Academy become more prepared for disasters and emergencies. These students use their CERT training to teach 

others about emergency planning and preparation including how to assemble an emergency kit and how to 

develop an emergency plan. 

NEVADA

Northeast Nevada Citizen Corps/CERT Program 

ORGANIZATION: NORTHEAST NEVADA CITIZEN CORPS/CERT PROGRAM 

Website: http://www.citizencorps.fema.gov/cc/showCert.do?id=59747

Age(s): 13–Adult 

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Northeast Nevada Citizen Corps/CERT Program is committed to ensuring that youth are 

empowered with preparedness knowledge and skills. Their outreach efforts include bringing CERT to youth 

audiences; giving youth and first responders opportunities to interact; working with the school district to increase 

school preparedness; and partnering with local groups to provide opportunities for youth to get involved.
57 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Region X

FEMA Region X includes Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. 

The contact information for Region X is as follows:

Federal Regional Center

130 - 228th Street, Southwest

Bothell, WA 98021-8627

Telephone: (425) 487-4600

More information can be found at http://www.fema.gov/region-x.
58 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

OREGON

Wasco County 4-H Youth Development Program 

ORGANIZATION: OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION SERVICE

Website: http://extension.oregonstate.edu/wasco/fourh

Age(s): 5-19

Topic(s): General preparedness, Response, Recovery, Personal safety

Description: The Oregon State University Extension Service Wasco County 4-H is the only youth development 

program connected to the land grant university system and guided by research-based knowledge. Wasco 

County 4-H uses curricula available from the American Red Cross, Teen CERT, and others when planning youth 

preparedness events and training. Each year, they hold an annual weekend-long leadership conference. For 2015, 

the theme was surviving a zombie apocalypse. Youth in grades 7–12 learned about preparedness and first-aid and 

participated in team building games and activities. In addition, a summer day camp taught 4th, 5th and 6th grade 

youth preparedness and first-aid with each participant going home with the beginnings of a survival pack and 

first-aid kit. Zombies beware—the youth are prepared!

WASHINGTON

Tacoma LDS CERT Program

ORGANIZATION: TACOMA STAKE, CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY 

SAINTS (LDS)

Website: http://www.citizencorps.fema.gov/cc/showCert.do?id=59184

Age(s): 13–Adult

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Tacoma Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) CERT’s mission is to serve and 

safeguard the community through efficient and effective volunteer service, which helps protect life and property 

ensuring "the greatest good, for the greatest number." The CERT program is comprised of volunteer teams that are 

trained in basic safety and emergency preparedness. This program helps provide rapid and safe care for the City 

of Tacoma’s residents in the event of a major incident or large-scale disaster. During non-emergency situations, 

Tacoma LDS CERT focuses on public education and awareness to help increase the emergency preparedness of all 

residents in the jurisdiction.
59 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Curricula
60 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

CURRICULA BY AGE

CURRICULUM 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18AdultCareer exploration

9-1-1 For Kids l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l

"Be Prepared!" Emergency Preparedness 

Patch Program l l l l l l l l l l l l l l

Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge l l l l l l l

First Aid Badge, Girl Scouts of the USA l l l l l l l l l l l l l

Get Ready with Freddie!

Hug-A-Tree and Survive l l l l l

IS-909: Community Preparedness: 

Implementing Simple Activities 

for Everyone

l

"Let's Learn to Prevent Disasters!" 

Educational Kit l l l l l l l l

Masters of Disaster l l l l l l l l l l

NetSmartz Workshop, National Center 

for Missing & Exploited Children l l l l l l l l l l l l l

Pillowcase Project l l l l

Ready Houston l l l l l l l

Sesame Street Fire Safety Station 

Program l l l

Signs of Suicide (SOS) Prevention 

Program l l l l l l l l l

StormZone l l l l l l l l

Student Tools for Emergency Planning 

(STEP) l l l

Team SAFE-T l l l l l l l l l l l l l l

Teen Community Emergency Response 

Team (Teen CERT) l l l l l l l

Young ShelterBox l l l l l l l l l

Youth Emergency Preparedness l l l l l l l l l l l l l
61 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

CURRICULA BY TOPIC

CURRICULUM

ConservationCrime PreventionDisaster psychologyEarthquakesExtreme heatFire safetyFloodsGeneral preparednessHealthHurricanesLightningMedicalPersonal growthPersonal safetyRecoveryResilienceSearch and rescueSevere weatherTornadosVolunteerism / Community serviceWilderness / Survival skillsWildfiresWinter weather

9-1-1 For Kids l

"Be Prepared!" Emergency Preparedness 

Patch Program l

Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge l

First Aid Badge, Girl Scouts of the USA l

Get Ready with Freddie! l

Hug-A-Tree and Survive l

IS-909: Community Preparedness: 

Implementing Simple Activities 

for Everyone

l

"Let's Learn to Prevent Disasters!" 

Educational Kit l l

Masters of Disaster l l l l l l l l l l l

NetSmartz Workshop, National Center 

for Missing & Exploited Children l l

Pillowcase Project l l l l l l l l l l l

Ready Houston l

Sesame Street Fire Safety Station 

Program l

Signs of Suicide (SOS) 

Prevention Program l

StormZone l l l l l l l l

Student Tools for Emergency 

Planning (STEP) l l l l

Team SAFE-T l l l l l l l

Teen Community Emergency 

Response Team (Teen CERT) l l l l l l l l

Young ShelterBox l l

Youth Emergency Preparedness l
62 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

9-1-1 for Kids

ORGANIZATION: 9-1-1 FOR KIDS

Website: http://www.911forkids.com

Age(s): 4–Adult

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: 9-1-1 for Kids is the official public education organization for law enforcement agencies, fire 

departments, emergency medical response, and 9-1-1 communication centers in the U.S., Canada, and the 

Cayman Islands—all countries where 9-1-1 is the universal emergency response phone number. The 9-1-1 for 

Kids site offers information and links to training materials for public safety officials, community groups, parents, 

teachers, and children. Instructional materials include: the Presenter's Pack (including The Great 9-1-1 Adventure video 

and presenter's guide and lesson plan); the Classroom Pack (including student activity sheets, stickers, magnets, 

bookmarks, student completion certificates, and classroom poster); and support teaching materials (including 

coloring books, emergency wallet cards, erasers, rulers, zipper pulls, goodie bags, apparel, and 9-1-1 heroes 

awards supplies).

The 9-1-1 for Kids Local 9-1-1 Heroes program aims to bring awareness to exemplary dispatchers and 9-1-1 youth 

heroes. The 9-1-1 Local Heroes Medal of Honor is bestowed on a young person who distinguishes himself/herself 

by gallantry and intrepidity calling 9-1-1 to help save a life or property, or to report a crime. This award is also 

presented to the 9-1-1 dispatcher/call taker who processed the call and dispatched the appropriate emergency 

response help.

Be Prepared! Emergency Preparedness Patch Program

ORGANIZATION: GIRL SCOUTS OF THE USA

Website: http://www.gscnc.org/dhs.html

Age(s): 5–18

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: In conjunction with FEMA’s Citizen Corps, the Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital created the 

Be Prepared! Emergency Preparedness patch program to equip Girl Scouts with skills to protect their families, 

friends, and communities when disaster strikes. The patch program prepares Girl Scouts to identify local risks 

and potential emergencies, connect with local community service agencies, understand hazards and appropriate 

protective actions, learn local alerts and warning systems, prepare themselves and their families, deal with 

emotional responses to an emergency, discover how to get trained and become involved in community emergency 

planning, and explore additional resources. A leader’s guide can be downloaded from the website.
63 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge

ORGANIZATION: BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

Website: http://www.boyscouttrail.com/boy-scouts/meritbadges/emergencypreparedness.asp

Age(s): 11–17

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: The Boy Scouts of America Emergency Preparedness merit badge includes learning skills for 

preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation for emergency situations including home emergencies, camping 

accidents, natural disasters, boating accidents, and power plant accidents. The badge requirements also include 

developing plans and working with others to help them become prepared.

First Aid Badge

ORGANIZATION: GIRL SCOUTS OF THE USA

Website: http://forgirls.girlscouts.org/badges 

Age(s): 5–17

Topic(s): Medical

Description: For over a century, Girl Scouts of the USA has helped build girls of courage, confidence, and character 

by teaching skills and offering merit badge programs. One such badge is the Girl Scout First Aid Badge, which is 

awarded to scouts from second grade (Brownies) through twelfth grade (Ambassadors). While all of the levels 

of scouting require different skills and activities to earn the First Aid Badge, they all aim to prepare girls to help 

others and be leaders in times of emergency. 

Get Ready with Freddie!

ORGANIZATION: SAFE KIDS WORLDWIDE (FORMERLY HOME SAFETY COUNCIL)

Website: http://www.healthyschoolsms.org/health_education/documents/freddie.pdf

Age(s): 8–9

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: Get Ready with Freddie! is a short activity book focused around Freddie Flashlight. Students learn to 

develop a family plan and assemble preparedness kits for their homes. There is also information available in 

Spanish. The games and worksheets include tips, checklists, and advice for creating an emergency kit and for 

pet preparedness.
64 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Hug-a-Tree and Survive

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR SEARCH AND RESCUE

Website: http://www.nasar.org/page/67/Hug-A-Tree

Age(s): 7–11

Topic(s): Wilderness/survival skills

Description: This educational program teaches children basic and vital survival principles and simple ways to 

survive in the woods if they get lost. The program includes an introduction, video presentation, and suggestions 

and demonstrations. The program also includes handouts for parents and activity books for kids. 

IS-909: Community Preparedness: Implementing Simple 

Activities for Everyone

ORGANIZATION: FEMA

Website: http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/is909.asp

Age(s): Adult

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: This interactive web-based training teaches participants the steps for planning and conducting a 

community-based preparedness program and helps them identify resources for supporting community-based 

preparedness programs. The training is intended for the whole community including emergency management 

personnel and representatives of faith-based and nonprofit organizations. Community Preparedness: Implementing Simple 

Activities for Everyone includes handouts and activities that can be used as part of a program.

Let's Learn to Prevent Disasters! Educational Kit

ORGANIZATION: UNITED NATIONS OFFICE FOR DISASTER RISK REDUCTION AND 

UNITED NATIONS CHILDREN’S FUND 

Website: http://www.unisdr.org/we/inform/publications/2114

Age(s): 5–12

Topic(s): Conservation, General preparedness

Description: This booklet includes activities, stories, and fun learning techniques to be used to introduce children 

to the topic of disasters. The kit includes the board game Riskland, through which players learn about what they 

can do to reduce disaster impacts by answering questions and advancing along the board’s winding path. The kit 

can be adapted to the different hazards relevant in all communities and is available in English, Spanish, German, 

Greek, Urdu, and Bangla.
65 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Masters of Disaster

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website: http://www.redcross.org/disaster/masters

Age(s): 5–14

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Fire safety, Floods, General preparedness, Hurricanes, Lightning, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Resilience, Tornadoes, Wildfires

Description: The American Red Cross Masters of Disaster curriculum is centered on a series of ready-to-go 

lesson plans that help organizations educate youth about important disaster safety and preparedness information. 

Masters of Disaster contains lessons, activities, and demonstrations on disaster-related topics that organizations can 

incorporate into daily or thematic programming. The curriculum is non-sequential, allowing organizers to choose 

the lesson plans that best fit into their programming. The Masters of Disaster curriculum materials meet national 

educational standards and are specifically tailored for lower elementary (K–2), upper elementary (3–5), and 

middle school (6–8) classes. Lessons are enjoyable and interactive, ensuring that children are having fun 

while internalizing important life skills by building capabilities in mathematics, language arts, social studies, 

and science.

NetSmartz Workshop

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL CENTER FOR MISSING & EXPLOITED 

CHILDREN (NCMEC)

Website: http://www.netsmartz.org

Age(s): 5–17

Topic(s): Crime prevention, Personal safety

Description: The NetSmartz Workshop is an interactive, educational program of the National Center for Missing 

& Exploited Children (NCMEC) that provides age-appropriate resources to help teach children how to be safer 

on- and offline. The program is designed for children, parents and guardians, educators, and law enforcement. 

With resources such as videos, games, activity cards, and presentations, NetSmartz entertains while it educates. 

Pillowcase Project

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website: http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/school/preparedness-education/the-pillowcase-project

Age(s): 8–11

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Earthquake, Fire safety, Floods, General preparedness, Hurricanes, 

Lightning, Resilience, Severe weather, Tornadoes, Wildfires 

Description: This 60-minute program, run in schools and after-school programs, introduces children to the 

importance of emergency preparedness. It includes discussion of both general and local hazards, including the 

science behind them. The program uses physical activity and small-group learning in addition to instruction.
66 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Ready Houston

ORGANIZATION: CITY OF HOUSTON MAYOR’S OFFICE OF PUBLIC SAFETY & HOMELAND SECURITY

Website: http://www.readyhoustontx.gov/schoolready/index.html

Age(s): 5–11

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: Ready Houston materials include classroom lessons and take-home activities divided into three 

modules (grades K–1, 2–3, and 4–5). The lessons can be used for a one-day activity or as a complete unit over 

several days. The lessons offer an opportunity for a school-wide program. Each element of the curriculum serves 

to reinforce the core message of Make a Plan, Build a Kit, and Stay Informed.

Sesame Street Fire Safety Station Program

ORGANIZATION: UNITED STATES FIRE ADMINISTRATION AND SESAME STREET

Website: http://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/education_programs.html

Age(s): 3–5

Topic(s): Fire safety

Description: The United States Fire Administration and Sesame Street collaborated to design a fire safety 

curriculum for preschoolers. The curriculum, which is available in English and Spanish, includes an activity book 

for teachers, a CD of songs and stories, a coloring book, and a poster. Members of fire departments, school faculty 

members, and daycare providers are eligible to order hard copies of these items. To order a free printed copy of the 

curriculum, members of these organizations can fax a request to (301)447-1213 on their organization’s letterhead. 

Additionally, free digital copies are available to the general public online.

Signs of Suicide (SOS) Prevention Program

ORGANIZATION: SCREENING FOR MENTAL HEALTH, INC.

Website: www.MentalHealthScreening.org

Age(s): 11–19

Topic(s): Health

Description: The Signs of Suicide (SOS) Prevention Program teaches middle and high school-age students 

to identify the symptoms of depression and suicidality in themselves or their friends, and encourages 

help-seeking through the use of the ACT technique (Acknowledge, Care, Tell). The program also offers a validated 

questionnaire to determine a student’s risk level for depression and suicide and includes two gatekeeper training 

tools for school staff, parents, and community members. The SOS Program encourages schools to establish 

emergency guidelines in preparation for implementation.
67 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

StormZone

ORGANIZATION: STORMZONE

Website: http://www.stormzone.us

Age(s): 11–18 

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Extreme heat, Floods, Hurricanes, Tornados, Volunteerism/Community service, 

Wildfires, Winter weather

Description: StormZone is a free online, school-based multidisciplinary science and social studies program that 

teaches students about the science of severe natural hazards including hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, severe winter 

weather, extreme heat, wildfires, and earthquakes. Students also learn how emergency management agencies work 

with federal, state and local governments to prepare for and recover from such disasters. Within this framework is 

an interactive exercise where students form their own government and plan for and recover from a major weather 

event or earthquake. Finally, students are provided with safety and preparedness information, including a disaster 

survival kit and family communication plan to take home to their families, as well as information regarding 

volunteerism provided by the American Red Cross. Users can access free materials by visiting the website. 

Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP)

ORGANIZATION: FEMA

Website and Contact Information: https://www.fema.gov/student-tools-emergency-planning-step and 

FEMA-R1-STEP@fema.dhs.gov

Age(s): 9–11

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Fire safety, General preparedness, Severe weather

Description: Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP) is a free program designed to teach fifth graders what 

to do in emergency situations, how to create emergency kits, and how to develop family communication plans. 

Teachers are required to dedicate one hour of class-time to the base lesson, and the program offers up to 10 hours 

of optional lessons to reinforce the base lesson. Participating schools receive ready-to-teach lesson materials, 

including DVDs, copies of student handouts, and disaster game cards. Students may also receive starter kit 

backpacks. Students at participating schools have displayed confidence and knowledge in responding to 

disasters, and have enjoyed taking leadership roles in assembling family emergency kits and making family 

communications plans.
68 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Team SAFE-T

ORGANIZATION: CALIFORNIA PARTNERSHIP FOR SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS

Website: http://www.teamsafe-t.org

Age(s): 5–18

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Fire safety, General preparedness, Health, Medical, Personal growth, Personal safety

Description: Developed in response to the September 11 terrorist attacks, Team SAFE-T (School and Family 

Emergency Training) is an alliance of public and private organizations that joined together to increase education 

and awareness in response to various natural and manmade emergencies and disasters throughout California. 

The Team SAFE-T Partnership is dedicated to serving the citizens of California by providing a free, fully 

integrated health, safety, and character curriculum, along with comprehensive family support materials accessible 

in seven languages.

Administered through California’s schools, Team SAFE-T reaches students and families through an annualized 

standards-based curriculum and support materials developed to give easy-to-understand, age-appropriate 

instruction. The program includes lessons on school culture, antiviolence, attendance, all-hazard preparedness, 

character, and first-aid. Team SAFE-T is the key educational component of California’s disaster preparedness 

campaign, Be Smart, Be Responsible, Be Prepared, Be Ready!

Teen Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

ORGANIZATION: FEMA

Website: http://www.fema.gov/community-emergency-response-teams/teen-community-emergencyresponse-team

Age(s): 12–18

Topic(s): Disaster psychology, Fire safety, General preparedness, Medical, Personal safety, Recovery, 

Search and rescue, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: Teen Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) provides basic CERT training to students 

in their high schools or extra-curricular activities. The program gives students emergency and leadership 

skills, creates an emergency response asset for schools, creates an avenue to deliver the preparedness message 

to teens’ families and parents, creates a culture of preparedness among tomorrow’s community leaders, and 

promotes connections to local sponsoring agencies, including the fire department, law enforcement, and 

emergency management.
69 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Young ShelterBox 

ORGANIZATION: SHELTERBOX USA

Website: http://www.youngshelterboxusa.org/teacher.php

Age(s): 5–14

Topic(s): General preparedness, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The Young ShelterBox (YSB) Club offers youth the opportunity to prepare for disasters with their 

family and community and help make a difference for global neighbors. The YSB website also includes information 

on the causes and effects of various disasters such as tsunamis, earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and volcanic 

eruptions.

Youth Emergency Preparedness

ORGANIZATION: FEMA READY KIDS

Website: http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/34411

Age(s): 6–18

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: The Ready Kids Youth Emergency Preparedness curriculum can be used to introduce participants 

to disasters and their impact; how to prepare themselves and their families; and what to do if a disaster occurs. 

Separate curricula are available for grades 1–2, 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12.
70 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Resources 

& Activities
71 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

American Red Cross College Resources

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website: http://redcrossyouth.org/college/college-resources

Age(s): 18–22

Type(s) of Materials: In-person activities, Worksheets

Topic(s): General preparedness, Health

Description: This website provides information to help college-age students help their friends and prevent and 

prepare for disasters that could strike while they are away from home. The website offers toolkits to help students 

start a Red Cross Club, including activities, presentations, and handouts.

CPR in SchoolsTM

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

Website: http://www.heart.org/cprinschools

Age(s): Adult

Type(s) of Materials: In-person activities, Lesson Plans

Topic(s): Medical

Description: The American Heart Association’s CPR in Schools Training KitTM is an all-in-one educational program 

that comes with a curriculum and 10 manikins. The kit empowers students to learn the core skills of CPR in under 

30 minutes, and it teaches AED skills and choking relief. The easy-to-use kit is designed specifically for the needs of 

school educators. It is portable, allowing for convenient movement from classroom to classroom and easy storage. 

It is also reusable and one kit can train hundreds of students.

Disaster Hero

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN COLLEGE OF EMERGENCY PHYSICIANS

Website: www.disasterhero.com

Age(s): 7–14

Type(s) of Materials: Game

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Floods, General preparedness, Health, Hurricanes, Tornadoes

Description: Disaster Hero is a free online game designed to teach children, parents, teachers, and caregivers how 

to prepare for disasters. The overall goals are to ensure that players know what to do before, during, and after a 

disaster. Parents and teachers are included so that the family and school are familiar with the main concepts of 

disaster preparedness. Emphasis is placed on making a plan, getting a kit, and being informed.
72 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Disaster Preparedness Coloring Book

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS AND FEMA

Website: http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1640

Age(s): 4–7

Type(s) of Materials: Coloring book, Worksheets

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Fire safety, Floods, General preparedness, Hurricanes, Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, 

Winter storms

Description: This coloring and activity book helps children and their parents work together to learn about natural 

disasters, family communication plans, and emergency kits. The coloring book allows children to work with their 

families or teachers to learn about remaining safe in a fire, earthquake, flood, tornado, or other disaster.

Disaster Response and Relief

ORGANIZATION: DOSOMETHING.ORG

Website: http://www.dosomething.org/cause/disasters

Age(s): 13–25

Type(s) of Materials: Community engagement, In-person activities 

Topic(s): Conservation, General preparedness, Health, Personal safety, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: By utilizing the web, television, mobile, and pop culture, DoSomething.org aims to inspire, 

empower, and celebrate a generation of teenagers who recognize the need to do something, believe in their 

ability to get it done, and then take action. The website provides information on recent disasters, facts on disaster 

response and relief, and tips on how to take action with their families and communities to become more prepared 

for disasters. The organization also sends text alerts to inform teens about how they can take action in response to 

a recent disaster.

Environmental Protection Agency: 

Student Resources

ORGANIZATION: ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 

Website: http://www.epa.gov/students/ and http://www.epa.gov/osw/education

Age(s): 5–18

Type(s) of Materials: Games, In-person activities, Lesson plans

Topic(s): Conservation, Health

Description: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers a variety of resources for children and youth, 

as well as parents and teachers. The Planet Protector Club, for ages 5–11, teaches younger children about their 

environment and focuses on specific topics including garbage and climate change. The Make a Difference 

campaign for middle school students helps students make informed decisions for protecting the environment in 

their day-to-day lives, such as by recycling. The website also offers information on community service and science 

fair projects and homework help.
73 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Firefacts.org

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL FIRE PREVENTION COUNCIL

Website: http://www.firefacts.org

Age(s): 5–12

Type(s) of Materials: Coloring books, Games, Puzzles, Worksheets

Topic(s): Fire safety

Description: Firefacts.org is a family of interactive websites that teaches fire safety to children and offers resources 

to parents and teachers to promote fire safety. They have a website just for children, Fire Safe Kids, that features 

educational games and activities.

generation On

ORGANIZATION: POINTS OF LIGHT

Website: http://www.generationon.org

Age(s): 5–18

Type(s) of Materials: Community engagement

Topic(s): Volunteerism/Community service

Description: GenerationOn, the youth division of Points of Light, brings the Nation's leading youth service 

organizations and programs under one umbrella including Children for Children, The League, the National Youth 

Advisory Council, Learning to Give, Kids Care Clubs, and HandsOn Schools. By partnering with teachers, parents, 

schools, community organizations, and businesses, generationOn gives kids the opportunity to see firsthand the 

issues in their communities and the tools and resources they need to respond and become part of the solution.

Get Ready

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION (APHA)

Website: http://www.getreadyforflu.org

Age(s): All ages

Type(s) of Materials: Games, In-person activities, Worksheets 

Topic(s): Health

Description: The Get Ready campaign, which was launched in 2006, helps Americans to prepare themselves, 

their families, and their communities for all hazards and disasters including pandemic flu, infectious disease, and 

natural disasters. The website provides free print, video, and audio materials that can be downloaded, including a 

brochure, fact sheets, posters, podcasts, games, and coloring sheets. In addition, the website has a special area just 

for children where they can find games and child-friendly reading materials.
74 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Great ShakeOut

ORGANIZATION: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EARTHQUAKE CENTER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Website: http://www.shakeout.org

Age(s): All ages

Type(s) of Materials: In-person activity

Topic(s): Earthquakes

Description: The Great ShakeOut website provides information for individuals, businesses, schools, faith-based 

organizations, community groups, government agencies, and others to participate in ShakeOut, to get prepared for 

earthquakes, and to share what they are doing with others. Resources include a drill manual, preparedness guide 

for individuals with access or functional needs, drill broadcast recordings, posters, flyers, and web banners.

Here for Each Other: Helping Families 

After Emergencies

ORGANIZATION: SESAME WORKSHOP

Website: http://www.sesamestreet.org/parents/topicsandactivities/toolkits/emergencies

Age(s): 3–5 

Type(s) of Materials: Coloring pages, Games, In-person activities, Worksheets

Topic(s): General preparedness, Recovery, Resilience

Description: Sesame Street developed Here for Each Other: Helping Families After Emergencies, a bilingual 

initiative (English and Spanish) that provides resources to help adults and children cope with disasters. Here for 

Each Other provides materials including videos and guides for children, families, and community leaders (e.g., 

first responders, teachers, etc.). These materials are intended to help children feel secure and help parents create a 

comforting environment for their children in the wake of a disaster. Sample exercises include a drawing activity, 

memory game, and prompts for identifying feelings. The materials also include tips and strategies for parents, 

caregivers, and providers.
75 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

International Tsunami Information Center

ORGANIZATION: INTERGOVERNMENTAL OCEANOGRAPHIC COMMISSION OF THE 

UNITED NATIONS EDUCATIONAL, SCIENTIFIC, AND CULTURAL ORGANIZATION 

Website: http://itic.ioc-unesco.org/index.php and http://itic.ioc-unesco.org/index.php?option=

com_content&view=article&id=1349&Itemid=1075

Age(s): All ages

Type(s) of Materials: Story, Worksheets

Topic(s): Tsunamis

Description: The International Tsunami Information Center’s website includes a variety of resources such as 

a tsunami basics brochure, a glossary, awareness posters, and classroom materials. Resources are available in 

multiple languages. 

Kids Get a Plan

ORGANIZATION: FLORIDA DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Website: http://www.kidsgetaplan.com

Age(s): 6–11

Type(s) of Materials: Coloring pages, Games, Stories 

Topic(s): Hurricanes, Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, Wildfires

Description: Kids Get a Plan is an interactive website featuring stories, coloring pages, and activities. The website 

also offers accompanying guides for teachers and parents. Topics covered include thunderstorms, wildfires, 

hurricanes, and tornadoes.

Let's Get Ready! Planning Together for Emergencies

ORGANIZATION: SESAME WORKSHOP

Website: http://www.sesamestreet.org/parents/topicsandactivities/toolkits/ready

Age(s): 4–5

Type(s) of Materials: Games, In-person activities, Worksheets

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: Let's Get Ready! Planning Together for Emergencies was developed by Sesame Workshop in 

collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security’s Ready Kids initiative and the Ad Council. Let's Get 

Ready! provides multimedia resources in English and Spanish, including videos, guides for parents and caregivers, 

and activity books for kids. The goal of the program is to help families prepare for emergencies and offer ways for 

young children to contribute to an emergency readiness plan.
76 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

(NOAA): Various Resources

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION

Website: http://www.education.noaa.gov/?full and http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/education/yos/activities/

activities.html and http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/education.html and http://games.noaa.gov

Age(s): 5–Adult

Type(s) of Materials: Coloring books, Games, In-person activities, Lesson plans

Topic(s): Conservation, Extreme weather, General preparedness

Description: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) offers a variety of online games and 

activities, coloring books, puzzles, and materials for teachers and students to understand facts about the planet and 

our weather. The materials are designed for two age groups, grades K–5 and 6–12. NOAA also offers information 

for youth and educators on topics such as tsunamis, oil spills, and hurricanes. The resources include lessons and 

activities that cover safety and preparedness. 

Preparedness 101: Zombie Apocalypse

ORGANIZATION: CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION (CDC)

Website: http://emergency.cdc.gov/socialmedia/zombies.asp

Age(s): All ages

Type(s) of Materials: In-person activities, Story

Topic(s): Fire safety, General preparedness, Health, Medical

Description: This website from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a zombie novella 

and web buttons and badges to encourage people of all ages to prepare for a zombie apocalypse. In reality, the 

preparedness tips for this unlikely scenario can be applied to more common scenarios, such as natural disasters. 

Preparedness tips include a list of key items an emergency kit should include, as well as steps that individuals 

can take to create a family emergency plan. Additionally, this resource includes links to other CDC emergency 

preparedness pages, RSS feeds, and emergency warning widgets for users to add to their own websites.

Prep-Pardy: A Preparedness Game

ORGANIZATION: FEMA REGION III

Website: https://jeopardylabs.com/play/prep-pardy-a-preparedness-game

Age(s): 8–Adult

Type(s) of Materials: Game

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: Up to 12 teams can compete in this preparedness-related trivia game that covers topics including 

preparedness, mitigation, response, recovery, and types of natural disasters.
77 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Ready Kids

ORGANIZATION: FEMA

Website: http://www.ready.gov/kids

Age(s): 8–12

Type(s) of Materials: Games, Lesson Plans, Worksheets

Topic(s): General preparedness

Description: Ready Kids features disaster-related information, games, and activities to help children be informed, 

make a plan, and build a kit. Additionally, the website offers tools to help parents and teachers educate children 

about emergencies and how they can help get their families prepared.

Ready New York: Kids

ORGANIZATION: NEW YORK CITY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT (OEM)

Website: http://www.nyc.gov/html/oem/html/get_prepared/ready_kids.shtml

Age(s): 5–18

Type(s) of Materials: Games, Lesson Plans, Worksheets

Topic(s): Fire safety, General preparedness, Volunteerism/Community service

Description: The New York City Office of Emergency Management (OEM) offers a variety of resources and 

activities to teach youth about preparedness. These resources and activities include a coloring book, a crossword 

puzzle, a word search, a memory game, and tip lists for parents and guardians working with children. Ready 

New York’s Choose Your Own Path to Preparedness materials include storybooks for young readers and offer a variety of 

resources for parents and teachers. The Let’s Get Ready, New York! guide provides additional resources for parents and 

families. OEM also teamed up with campers at the Police Athletic League Beacon Summer Camp at the Goldie 

Maple Academy in the Rockaways to create two cartoons about emergency preparedness.

Ready... Set... Prepare: A Disaster Preparedness 

Activity Book

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS AND FEMA

Website: https://www.citizencorps.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/ready/brochure/P-523_June_2008.pdf

Age(s): 4–7 and 8–11 

Type(s) of Materials: Worksheets

Topic(s): Earthquakes, Fire safety, Floods, General preparedness, Hurricanes, Thunderstorms, 

Tornadoes, Winter storms

Description: These activity books are intended to encourage children and their families to work together to 

prepare for disasters through activities and games. The books have age-appropriate characters that tell children 

about emergency-related vocabulary they need to know, how to prepare for a disaster, how to make a disaster 

supply kit, and how to prevent fires. There is also information on floods, thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, 

winter storms, and earthquakes.
78 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Ready Wrigley

ORGANIZATION: CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION (CDC)

Website: http://www.cdc.gov/phpr/readywrigley

Age(s): 5–11

Type(s) of Materials: Worksheets

Topic(s): Earthquakes, General preparedness, Hurricanes, Winter weather

Description: The Ready Wrigley site provides parents, guardians, teachers, and young children with tips, activities, 

and a story to help the whole family prepare for emergencies. Wrigley the dog helps her family prepare by staying 

informed, packing emergency kits, and making a family communication plan. One Ready Wrigley activity book 

focuses on hurricanes, another one on earthquakes, and a third on winter weather. 

Restore the Shore: Patch Program

ORGANIZATION: GIRL SCOUTS OF THE JERSEY SHORE

Website: http://www.girlscoutsjs.org/restore-the-shore-patch-program-2

Age(s): 5–18

Type(s) of Materials: In-person activities

Topic(s): Volunteerism/Community service

Description: In an effort to help after Hurricane Sandy came ashore and devastated numerous communities in 

October 2012, the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore created the Restore the Shore patch program. This patch program 

provides useful ideas for how Girl Scouts can aid in Sandy relief efforts and earn a new badge. In order to earn 

the badge, Girl Scouts must complete a number of approved relief activities depending on their age. Some of these 

activities include holding a food drive, making a monetary donation, donating to local agencies or houses of 

worship, and checking with animal shelters to see if they need extra supplies.

Scrub Club

ORGANIZATION: NSF INTERNATIONAL

Website: http://www.scrubclub.org

Age(s): 3–8

Type(s) of Materials: Games, In-person activities

Topic(s): Health

Description: This fun, interactive, and educational website, which is part of American Red Cross educational 

outreach, raises awareness about the benefits of proper hand washing to fight germs and prevent illness. The site 

includes games, music, and activities for children as well as educational materials for teachers and parents. Scrub 

Club’s Soaper-Heroes are also part of the Cleanest Classroom Contest, where students track the daily number of 

times each student washes their hands over the course of four school weeks.
79 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Sparky

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION

Website: http://sparky.org

Age(s): 5–12

Type(s) of Materials: Games, Stories, Worksheets

Topic(s): Fire safety

Description: The Sparky.org website features games, fire safety information, cartoons, coloring pages, videos, 

mobile apps, e-cards, and an interactive look at the types and parts of fire trucks. The site also teaches kids how 

to create and utilize family escape plans and home safety checklists. There is a parent-focused page as well.

Sprinkler Smarts

ORGANIZATION: HOME FIRE SPRINKLER COALITION

Website: http://www.sprinklersmarts.org

Age(s): 5–15

Type(s) of Materials: Games, Lesson plans, Worksheets

Topic(s): Fire safety

Description: Sprinkler Smarts is a website that teaches kids how fire sprinklers and smoke alarms help keep 

families safe. Sprinkler Smarts has separate sites for kids in grades K–5 and 6–8. The site offers games that test kids’ 

knowledge, and includes other resources for teachers, parents, and fire departments.

The Day the Earth Shook 

ORGANIZATION: ILLINOIS EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

Website: http://public.iema.state.il.us/webdocs/earthquakegame/Welcome.html

Age(s): 5–14

Type(s) of Materials: Game

Topic(s): Earthquakes

Description: The Illinois Emergency Management Agency has ongoing efforts to spread the disaster preparedness 

message to the state’s youth. One of these efforts is the Day the Earth Shook video game. The game uses an earthquake 

scenario to demonstrate the need for a disaster supply kit as well as identify safe locations in a building during an 

earthquake.
80 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

The Rescue League Academy: Sink or Swim!

ORGANIZATION: CITY OF ARLINGTON TEXAS

Website: http://www.arlingtontx.gov/environmentalservices/pdf/StormWater_Novella.pdf

Age(s): All ages

Type(s) of Materials: Story

Topic(s): Floods 

Description: The Rescue League Academy is a graphic novella that promotes flood safety. It educates readers about how 

to prepare for a flood and what to do in the event of a flood. The story follows Blue Scout, a superhero from 2077, 

who is sent back in time to 2012 to save several unprepared families from the disaster of a flash flood.

Young Meteorologist Program

ORGANIZATION: PLAN!T NOW

Website: http://www.youngmeteorologist.org

Age(s): 5–12

Type(s) of Materials: Game

Topic(s): Floods, Hurricanes, Lightning, Tornados, Winter weather

Description: The Young Meteorologist program teaches youth about severe weather science and safety through an 

interactive game. The game shows kids what they need to do to prepare now to protect themselves and help their 

families when a real storm comes. The website also includes cartoon graphics, an opportunity for kids to share 

their stories, and information for parents and educators.

Zombie Apocalypse Party

ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website: http://redcrossyouth.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Zombie_YouthActivityGuide.pdf

Age(s): 8–Adult

Type(s) of Materials: In-person activities, Story

Topic(s): Fire safety, General preparedness, Health, Medical

Description: Learning preparedness skills can be less frightening and more engaging when presented in the 

context of a fictional disaster—a zombie apocalypse. A zombie apocalypse party can be a great way to share 

preparedness information with a school or community, and it can teach skills that can be applied to a variety 

of disasters.
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Publications
82 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Before Disaster Strikes... A Guide to Food Safety 

in the Home

Author: International Association for Food Protection

Website: http://www.foodprotection.org/files/other-publications/rev-disaster-strikes.pdf

Description: This guide provides information on assembling an emergency food and water supply kit for the 

home. The guide explains the importance of planning ahead for disasters in terms of food safety and lists items 

that are important to store in case of an emergency. In addition, this guide addresses food safety issues including 

how long specific food items stay fresh, how to sanitize water, and how to avoid food-related illnesses.

Emergency Preparedness

AUTHOR: LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT

Website: http://www.cert-la.com/EmergPrepBooklet.pdf

Description: This booklet teaches Los Angeles residents how to be prepared for emergencies in their area. 

The booklet includes sections for family and home disaster planning, earthquake tips, and general preparedness 

checklists.

Family Readiness Kit

AUTHOR: AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS (AAP)

Website: http://www2.aap.org/family/frk/aapfrkfull.pdf and http://www2.aap.org/family/frk/FRK-Spanish.pdf

Description: The Family Readiness Kit is a set of materials for parents and families to use at home for students of 

all grades. It includes topics such as caring for your family, understanding disasters, steps to prepare, and disaster 

supplies. It is available in English and Spanish.

Helping Children Cope with Disaster

AUTHOR: AMERICAN RED CROSS AND FEMA

Website: http://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/children.pdf

Description: This booklet was created to assist parents and caregivers in helping children cope with disasters and 

emergencies. The guide also provides information on creating family emergency plans and discussing these plans 

with children.
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National Report Card on Protecting Children 

in Disasters

AUTHOR: SAVE THE CHILDREN

Website: www.savethechildren.org/US-Disaster

Description: Based on the recommendations of the National Commission on Children in Disasters, Save the 

Children has released a report every year since 2008, scoring states on basic standards to protect children in K–12 

schools and in child care. To meet these critical benchmarks, states must require all regulated child care settings to 

have written plans for evacuation and relocation and for family reunification following an emergency, as well as 

a specific plan to assist children with disabilities and those children with access and functional needs. States must 

also require all K–12 schools to have a written plan accounting for a variety of different disasters and emergencies. 

Pediatric Preparedness Resource Catalog

AUTHOR: ILLINOIS EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES FOR CHILDREN

Website: http://www.luhs.org/depts/emsc/disaster_preparedness/PedPrepareResourceDev_2009web_V2.pdf

Description: The Pediatric Preparedness Resource Catalog contains links to resources that have been developed in order 

to establish guidelines on and tools for pediatric preparedness. The catalog includes publications, websites, and 

fillable forms.

The Unique Needs of Children in Emergencies: 

A Guide for the Inclusion of Children in Emergency 

Operations Plans

AUTHOR: SAVE THE CHILDREN

Website: http://www.idph.state.ia.us/hcci/common/pdf/children_in_emergencies_planning_guide.pdf

Description: This guide was created to help local and state emergency managers and coordinators in their efforts 

to develop and maintain a document that is supplemental to a community’s standard emergency operations plan 

and that also addresses the special needs of children. The guide provides an overview of the process for developing 

this document, information on the psychological effects of disasters on children, and legal considerations for 

working with children in disasters.

Youth Volunteers in Disaster Services

AUTHOR: AMERICAN RED CROSS

Website: http://redcrossyouth.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/ythindis.pdf

Description: This document discusses the importance and benefits of involving youth in disaster preparedness 

programs. Additionally, the report provides the information and tools needed for leadership from three areas—

disaster services, youth services, and volunteer administration—to foster youth participation in their local 

chapters’ disaster services programs.
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Other Resources
85 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Aware & Prepare

Website: http://www.awareandprepare.org

Description: The Aware & Prepare Initiative is a public-private partnership designed to enhance the capabilities 

of nonprofit organizations and government agencies to mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from 

emergencies and disasters within the Santa Barbara County Operational Area. The program operates in eight major 

jurisdictions (Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, Goleta, Lompoc, Solvang, Buellton, Santa Maria, and Guadalupe) as well 

as the unincorporated areas and special districts.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

Website and Contact Information: http://www.aap.org and http://www.aap.org/disasters and 

DisasterReady@aap.org

Description: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is a membership organization of 62,000 primary care 

pediatricians, pediatric medical sub-specialists, and pediatric surgical specialists that strive to attain optimal 

physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. The AAP 

identifies Disaster Preparedness as a priority and appointed a Disaster Preparedness Advisory Council to oversee 

activities including a Children and Disasters Website (http://www.aap.org/disasters). The AAP supports efforts to 

ensure youth preparedness programs have clear goals and strategies, effective evaluation methods, and age- and 

developmentally-appropriate activities to provide evidence-based proof of effectiveness and absence of untoward 

effects. The AAP will aim to identify pediatricians to partner with select communities in the development of youth 

preparedness programs upon request. 

Children in Disasters Caucus, International Association 

of Emergency Managers (IAEM)

Website: http://www.iaem.com/page.cfm?p=groups/us-caucuses/children-in-disasters&lvl=2

Description: The International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) is a nonprofit educational organization 

dedicated to promoting the Principles of Emergency Management and representing those professionals whose goals 

are saving lives and protecting property and the environment during emergencies and disasters. IAEM’s Children 

in Disasters Caucus gives IAEM members with an interest in youth preparedness the opportunity to work together 

on pertinent issues and is designed to promote the inclusion of children in emergency management planning and 

preparedness. 
86 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Citizen Corps

Website: http://www.ready.gov/citizen-corps

Description: The mission of Citizen Corps is to harness the power of every individual through education, training, 

and volunteer service to make communities safer, stronger, and better prepared to respond to the threats of 

terrorism, crime, public health issues, and disasters of all kinds. Citizen Corps achieves this mission by engaging 

voluntary organizations to help augment resources for public safety, preparedness, and response capabilities. 

Citizen Corps supports youth preparedness education by sharing information at in-person events, on online 

forums and webinars, and through direct engagement with local stakeholders.

CLASP Advisors

Website: http://www.claspadvisors.com

Description: CLASP Advisors is a training and assessment firm that addresses the challenges of the complex school 

environment by providing comprehensive, customized, and advanced practices to create a comprehensive and 

well-rounded protection program for children and schools. CLASP’s experienced advisors bring multiple points of 

view and extensive expertise from government protection agencies, protective services, and the U.S. Military to 

achieve the firm's core belief that everyone has a role in emergency preparation. Having protected the U.S. at home 

and abroad, CLASP’s goal is to best prepare and safeguard children, families, and neighbors.

Community Preparedness Index (CPI), Save the Children 

and Columbia University’s National Center for Disaster 

Preparedness

Website: http://www.savethechildren.org/CPI

Description: The Community Preparedness Index (CPI) is an assessment tool that serves to guide community 

leaders and officials in determining their community’s readiness to serve children in a disaster. Developed by 

Save the Children and Columbia University’s National Center for Disaster Preparedness, the CPI is based on 

recommended guidelines and best practices, and focuses on major child-serving sectors, including child care, 

schools, foster care, emergency shelters, community organizations, and hospitals. The CPI produces a score for 

each sector, as well as an overall community preparedness score. These scores can help communities identify areas 

where more work or attention may be needed to bolster their preparedness. The scores are not made public—

they are only known by the group completing the CPI, Save the Children, and the National Center for Disaster 

Preparedness. 

Corporation for National and Community 

Service (CNCS)

Website: http://www.nationalservice.gov

Description: The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) is a federal agency that helps more 

than five million Americans improve the lives of their fellow citizens through service. CNCS is committed to 

creating intergenerational programs focused on youth preparedness and incentivizes AmeriCorps Grant applicants 

who include youth preparedness elements in their applications. CNCS’ programs include AmeriCorps, Senior 

Corps, and FEMA Corps. 
87 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Delta Emergency Response Team (ERT), Delta Sigma 

Theta Sorority, Incorporated

Website: http://www.deltasigmatheta.org

Description: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is committed to building and elevating the status of youth 

preparedness learning programs at the national, state, and local levels. The Delta Emergency Response Team (ERT) 

develops guidelines and provides resources for chapters to adequately prepare for and respond to disasters that will 

expedite the effective recovery of its members and surrounding community. Members are encouraged to engage in 

activities that will ensure awareness and resilience, and to contribute to overall community preparedness goals.

Department of Homeland Security Center for 

Faith-Based & Neighborhood Partnerships

Website: http://www.dhs.gov/dhs-center-faith-based-neighborhood-partnerships

Description: The mission of the Department of Homeland Security Center for Faith-Based & Neighborhood 

Partnerships is to build resilient communities among faith-based and community organizations. The Center for 

Faith-Based & Neighborhood Partnerships supports youth preparedness initiatives through virtual sessions with the 

faith-based community, by supporting FEMA Corps’ efforts to conduct school outreach, and by promoting FEMA’s 

youth preparedness education tools and resources via digital and in-person engagement.

Disaster And Crisis Communication Center, University 

of Missouri

Website: http://tdc.missouri.edu

Description: The Disaster and Community Crisis Center (DCC) focuses on enhancing mental and behavioral 

health preparedness, recovery, and resilience in children, families, and communities affected by disaster and 

community crisis. DCC provides national expertise and resources for intervention, training, consultation, and 

technical assistance related to disasters and community crises, and promotes public awareness of disaster mental 

and behavioral health. Their Resilience and Coping Intervention (RCI) group discussion guide is designed to 

assist practitioners in talking with children and adolescents about their thoughts and feelings regarding stressful 

events, such as disasters. Participants work in groups to identify strategies for effectively coping with disasters. 

Additionally, their Helping Youth Cope with Media Coverage of Disasters fact sheets provide overviews of how 

media coverage of a disaster may affect youth. The material includes suggested strategies for parents and teachers 

to address such effects. Resources are available in both PDF and video form.

Effective Education for Disaster Risk Reduction

Website: http://www.edu4drr.org

Description: Effective Education for Disaster Risk Reduction (edu4drr) is an online social network by and for 

teachers and educators who want to make a difference in disaster prevention education. The network includes 

a discussion forum, links to blogs, videos, and a compilation of preparedness education resources.
88 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Emergency Management Division, Orange County 

Sheriff’s Department

Website: http://ocsd.org/divisions/fieldops/emb

Description: This webpage provides preparedness information specific to Orange County, California. The page 

offers links to preparedness information for families and businesses, which includes information about keeping 

pets and livestock safe.

Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN)

Website: http://eden.lsu.edu/Pages/default.aspx

Description: The Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN) is a collaborative multi-state effort by Extension 

Services across the country to improve the delivery of services to citizens affected by disasters. EDEN links 

Extension educators from across the U.S. and various disciplines, enabling them to use and share resources to 

reduce the impact of disasters. Topics include agricultural disasters, families and communities, hazards and threats, 

human health, and disaster watch.

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Website: http://www.flash.org/index.php and http://stormstruck.org

Description: The nonprofit Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) is the country’s leading consumer advocate 

for strengthening homes and safeguarding families from natural and manmade disasters. FLASH has developed an 

activity book that includes youth-specific activities and worksheets and is focused on disseminating the book to 

schools across the country. FLASH sponsors StormStruck: The Tale of Two Homes, an interactive weather experience that 

is part of Walt Disney World. The StormStruck website features a variety of disaster preparedness safety games and 

interactive activities. 

FEMA Office of Disability Integration & 

Coordination (ODIC)

Website: https://www.fema.gov/office-disability-integration-coordination

Description: The FEMA Office of Disability Integration and Coordination (ODIC) leads FEMA's commitment to 

achieving whole community emergency management, inclusive of individuals with disabilities and others with 

access and functional needs, by providing guidance, tools, methods, and strategies to establish equal physical, 

program, and effective communication access. ODIC is committed to ensuring that youth and families receive 

access to the information and resources they need to protect themselves and recover from unexpected emergencies 

and catastrophic disasters.
89 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

FEMA Office of the Senior Law Enforcement 

Advisor (OSLEA)

Website: https://www.fema.gov/office-senior-law-enforcement-advisor

Description: The role of the FEMA Office of the Senior Law Enforcement Advisor (OSLEA) is to enhance 

communication and coordination between FEMA and law enforcement communities. OSLEA encourages 

law enforcement officials to promote the participation of youth in preparedness programs in their respective 

communities. These efforts include identifying and developing activities geared toward youth audiences. OSLEA 

seeks to support the needs of children and families by endorsing emergency management practices that adhere to 

FEMA’s core values of compassion, fairness, integrity, and respect. 

Firewise Communities/USA Recognition Program

Website: http://firewise.org/usa-recognition-program

Description: The Firewise Communities/USA Recognition Program encourages local solutions in reducing wildfire 

risk. It provides resources to help residents learn how to adapt to living with wildfire and work with neighbors to 

take action now to prevent losses. Communities earn Firewise recognition by developing risk reduction activities 

and implementing them in their neighborhoods. Firewise offers online courses, free materials, and educational 

opportunities to empower people to act and raise awareness about wildfire safety.

Girl Scouts of the USA Gold Award

Website: http://www.girlscouts.org/program/highest_awards/gold_award.asp

Description: Since 1916, the Gold Award, Girl Scouting’s highest award, has stood for excellence and leadership 

for girls everywhere. The Gold Award project is something that a girl can be passionate about and fulfills a need 

within a girl’s community. One way in which a girl may pursue her Gold Award is by addressing the issue of 

emergency preparedness. Girl Scouts nationwide recognize that emergency preparedness is critical to community 

safety. Sample preparedness initiatives from Gold Award winners include tsunami seminars, first aid workshops, 

and fire safety expos. 

Guam Homeland Security Office of Civil Defense

Website: http://www.ghs.guam.gov

Description: The Guam Homeland Security Office of Civil Defense coordinates and facilitates all Government of 

Guam, military, and federal liaison response agencies and their resources in mitigating, preparing for, responding 

to, and recovering from any and all types of emergencies in order to protect the lives, environment, and property 

on the island of Guam. The Guam Homeland Security Office of Civil Defense is in the process of developing 

several youth preparedness programs in partnership with local nonprofits and government affiliated entities.
90 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Homeland Security/Emergency Management 

Honor Society

Website: http://www.securityhonorsociety.org

Description: The Homeland Security/Emergency Management Honor Society is an academic and professional 

honor society dedicated exclusively to homeland security, intelligence, emergency management, and all protective 

security disciplines. The mission is to promote critical thinking, high scholarship, and professional development; 

to further enhance the ethical standards of the protective security professions; and to cultivate a high order of 

personal living. The Homeland Security/Emergency Management Honor Society is open to any undergraduate 

or graduate student who is enrolled in a homeland security, intelligence, emergency management, or protective 

security studies program.

Lead and Manage My School: Emergency Planning

Website: http://www2.ed.gov/admins/lead/safety/emergencyplan/index.html

Description: This U.S. Department of Education Office of Safe and Healthy Schools webpage offers resources that 

can help school leaders plan for emergencies of all kinds. The page provides links to reports, websites, and guides 

that all have to do with some aspect of school emergencies. Some of the topics include natural disasters, school 

violence, terrorist attacks, and illnesses in schools.

National Center for Missing & Exploited 

Children (NCMEC)

Website: http://www.missingkids.com and https://umr.missingkids.com/umr/reportUMR?execution=e1s1

Description: The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) partnered with FEMA to develop 

preparedness and reunification plans for children who have gone missing during or after an emergency or 

disaster. One of the resulting initiatives is the Unaccompanied Minors Registry, a data collection tool that assists 

reunification specialists in their efforts to reunite displaced children with their parents or legal guardians. 

National Voluntary Organizations Active in 

Disaster (National VOAD)

(NATIONAL STRATEGY AFFIRMER)

Website: http://www.nvoad.org

Description: National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (National VOAD) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, 

membership-based organization that builds resiliency in communities nationwide. It serves as a forum for 

organizations to share knowledge and resources throughout every phase of the disaster cycle—preparation, 

response, recovery, and mitigation. National VOAD is committed to building and strengthening partnerships 

among stakeholder agencies and organizations that are committed to promoting youth preparedness. These 

relationships are fostered through webinars, conference calls, mid-year conventions, and the National VOAD 

annual conference.
91 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Office of Human Services Emergency Preparedness 

& Response (OHSEPR)

Website: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ohsepr

Description: The Office of Human Services Emergency Preparedness and Response (OHSEPR), a part of the 

Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families, promotes the resilience of 

vulnerable individuals, children, families, and communities impacted by disasters and public health emergencies. 

OHSEPR also provides expertise in human services preparedness, response, and recovery through policy, planning, 

operations, and partnerships. OHSEPR has developed guidelines for states and communities to develop their own 

Children and Youth Task Forces on addressing children’s needs during emergency preparedness, response, and 

recovery. OHSEPR also disseminates guidance and tools to promote preparedness to human services partners such 

as child care providers, and Head Start. 

PREPaRE School Crisis Prevention And Intervention 

Training Curriculum, National Association Of School 

Psychologists (NASP)

Website: http://www.nasponline.org/prepare

Description: The NASP PREPaRE School Crisis Prevention and Intervention training curriculum provides school 

personnel comprehensive training on how to establish and serve on school safety and crisis teams. The curriculum 

integrates the roles of existing school staff, emergency responders, and community providers in terms of the five 

mission phases of crisis management: prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery, and engages 

schools in ongoing school safety and crisis preparedness efforts that ensure both physical and psychological 

safety. The PREPaRE model emphasizes the following hierarchical and sequential set of activities: (P) Prevent and 

prepare for psychological trauma; (R) Reaffirm physical health and perceptions of security and safety; (E) Evaluate 

psychological trauma risk; (P) Provide interventions; (a) and; (R) Respond to psychological needs; and (E) 

Examine the effectiveness of crisis prevention and intervention efforts.

Preparing for Disaster: The Parent View

Website: http://childcareaware.org/parents-and-guardians/resources/preparing-for-disaster-the-parent-view

Description: Child Care Aware provides an array of publications and resources to assist parents, educators, and 

child care providers in ensuring that children are safe while in child care. Resources cover what to ask your child 

care provider before a disaster, protecting children in child care during emergencies, helping children cope with 

an emergency, and nurturing children after disasters.
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Points of Light

Website: http://www.pointsoflight.org

Description: Points of Light (POL) utilizes the AmeriCorps Community Emergency Preparedness Corps and 

generationOn to engage youth in developing local approaches to increasing youth understanding of disasters and 

to inspire youth to better prepare themselves, their schools, and their families. POL Disaster Services is focused on 

partnership development to facilitate strengthening community capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover 

from disasters. By engaging partners like FEMA and the American Red Cross, POL disseminates proven disaster 

response practices throughout POL action centers and networks. POL is focusing on engaging local communities 

through support for preparedness events with local volunteer affiliates.

Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools 

(REMS): Technical Assistance Center (TA)

Website: http://rems.ed.gov

Description: The U.S. Department of Education’s Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools (REMS) 

Technical Assistance (TA) Center's primary goal is to support schools, school districts, and institutions of 

higher education in school emergency management, including the development and implementation of 

comprehensive all-hazards emergency management plans. In addition, the TA Center responds to direct 

requests for TA and training.

Ready Schools/Campus, Illinois Emergency 

Management Agency

Website: http://www.illinois.gov/ready/plan/Pages/Schools.aspx

Description: The Illinois Emergency Management Agency website offers information for a variety of ages, from 

preschool children to college students. Available resources include a School Safety Drills Best Practices and Procedures DVD, 

a tornado preparedness video and checklist, and a school emergency and crisis response plan template. College 

resources include information on enhancing campus safety.

Safe and Sound: A Sandy Hook Initiative 

Website: http://www.safeandsoundschools.org 

Description: Founded by parents who lost children at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Safe and Sound empowers 

youth and community members to take leadership in securing their schools. Through education, program and 

resource development, and community engagement, we help school community members work together to ensure 

the safest learning environment for our Nation’s youth. Safe and Sound develops materials, language, activities 

and teaching resources targeted toward youth engagement in safety preparedness and response. We teach basic 

actions and practice activities to reinforce appropriate and safe responses to emergencies in the school community 

and beyond. Our non-profit focuses on uniting all stakeholders around the common goal of safer, better prepared 

school communities.
93 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Safety Training for Emergency Preparedness at 

Schools (STEPS)

Website: http://steps.lausd.net

Description: The Safety Training for Emergency Preparedness at Schools (STEPS) website offers a series of short 

online courses that are designed to prepare Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) employees for emergency 

situations at school or other work locations. These courses are offered for multiple audiences including teachers, 

administrators, school police officers, and general employees. A certificate is issued to employees who complete 

the entire series of courses. In addition, the LAUSD website provides multiple tools that can help teachers 

implement youth preparedness activities, including posters and videos.

Scholastic

Website: http://www.scholastic.com

Description: Scholastic’s mission is to encourage the intellectual and personal growth of all children, beginning 

with literacy. Scholastic and its educational experts and partners promote youth preparedness through direct 

outreach to school leaders, educators, and families, through the publication of educational materials and current 

events magazines that help teachers explain the changing world to students, by sponsoring literary events, and by 

promoting service learning in schools. Scholastic has also developed a comfort kit, My Time, A Box for Comfort and Fun, 

for children affected by disasters and crises. The kit features tools that can be used to help children handle stress 

and anxiety. There are two versions of the kit, one for grades K–3 and one for grades 4–6.

Senior Corps

Website: http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/senior-corps

Description: Senior Corps, a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service, connects today’s 

55 and over population with the people and organizations that need them most. Senior Corps helps them become 

mentors, coaches, or companions to people in need, or contribute their job skills and expertise to community 

projects and organizations. Senior Corps is in the process of developing initiatives to help advance the youth 

preparedness movement. 

Take 25, National Center for Missing & Exploited 

Children (NCMEC)

Website: http://www.take25.org

Description: The Take 25 program is a national campaign that encourages families, educators, law enforcement 

officers, and other adults to take 25 minutes to talk to children about safety. Talking to children about ways to stay 

safe is vital; keeping the dialogue going is even more critical. Sharing critical information that helps youth stay safe 

will only encourage them to share this vital information with their peers and it encourages the community to keep 

youth in the conversation. 
94 Youth Preparedness Catalogue: Disaster Preparedness Education Programs and Resources

Target

Website: https://corporate.target.com/corporate-responsibility/safety-preparedness

Description: Target provides grants to emergency management agencies at the state and local levels in order to 

support youth preparedness programs such as CERT, STEP, and others. The company’s Heroes & Helpers annual 

events pair public safety officials with community youth for holiday shopping sprees at Target stores to help build 

connections between youth, law enforcement, and first responders. The company holds quarterly webinars with 

local emergency management agencies to share information, including how to work with Target’s Corporate 

Command Center, how to partner with Target during a crisis, and, in general, how Target helps build 

community preparedness. Target also sponsors the Emerging Leaders training program, which is an opportunity 

for the next generation of emergency management professionals in early-to-middle-management roles within their 

organizations to learn leadership and business management skills, while building their networks of 

peers and partners.

YMCA

Website: http://www.ymca.net

Description: With a focus on safety, health, social growth, and academic enhancement, the YMCA’s afterschool 

programs serve students in kindergarten through middle school with a variety of programmatic and activity 

options to explore and develop their interests and talents. YMCA seeks to integrate emergency preparedness 

activities into its portfolio of offerings. In 2010, YMCA signed a memorandum of understanding with the 

American Red Cross that provides a framework for national-level cooperation with respect to community 

disaster relief and other mutually beneficial services.

Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention

Website: http://apps.usfa.fema.gov/nfacourses/catalog/details/10435

Description: This six-day course from the U.S. Fire Administration provides participants with the knowledge 

and skills necessary to identify children and adolescents involved in firesetting. The course focuses on how 

identification, intake, screening, disposition, and follow-up are used to mitigate youth firesetting behavior. It also 

empowers participants with knowledge on how to develop, implement, and evaluate a youth firesetting prevention 

and intervention program. Participants visit a local residential treatment program for youth to gain further insight 

into firesetting.

Youth Service America (YSA)

Website: http://www.ysa.org

Description: The mission of Youth Service America (YSA) is to help young people find their voices, take action, 

and make an impact on vital community issues including disaster preparedness. YSA administers and sponsors 

a number of programs that include preparedness-related service options. These programs include: Semester of 

Service, Global Youth Service Day, and the National Child Awareness Month Youth Ambassador Program. These 

programs are designed to engage schools, before-and after-school programs, and youth clubs and societies. 

YSA’s website also offers suggestions for disaster preparedness, home safety, and community building activities.