New Training Program Strengthens Long-Term Recovery After Wildfires

Participants in a Disaster Case Management training session.

Article Sponsored by:

Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI)

Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI) is a Michigan-based organization specializing in trauma rehabilitation medical case management. With over 34 years of experience, CRCI is dedicated to empowering survivors of catastrophic auto accidents to regain control of their lives and achieve both physical and emotional well-being. Their team of Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSWs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) are experts in navigating the complexities of today’s healthcare system, ensuring that survivors receive the necessary services for their recovery and rehabilitation. CRCI’s core values include advocacy, people, knowledge, and dependability, reflecting their commitment to being leading advocates and facilitators of long-term collaborative care.

News Summary

The Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama Long Term Recovery Group has launched an eight-module Disaster Case Management training program designed to equip staff from various organizations to support wildfire survivors. This holistic approach emphasizes personal aid and community collaboration, and recent successes demonstrate its immediate positive impact. The initiative, bolstered by significant funding, aims to create a sustainable recovery model for those affected by the August wildfires in Hawaii.

New Training Program Aims to Strengthen Long-Term Recovery Efforts After August Wildfires

In a heartwarming initiative aimed at lifting up the community, the Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama Long Term Recovery Group has recently introduced a comprehensive eight-module Disaster Case Management training program. This valuable training was targeted at staff members from four key organizations: Hoʻōla LTRG, Hawaiʻi Community Lending, Kaibigan ng Lahaina, and Roots Reborn, totaling 17 participants ready to make a difference.

The primary goal of the training was to develop the skills necessary to support individuals and families who have been affected by disasters on their path to recovery. Participants learned the essentials of being effective Disaster Case Managers, who will serve as pivotal contacts for survivors navigating their complicated needs. These dedicated individuals play an important role in helping survivors access vital resources while advocating for their long-term well-being.

A Holistic Approach to Recovery

Under the guidance of Jessica Farmer and Carlene Anders from the Disaster Leadership Team, the training sessions emphasized a holistic approach to long-term recovery. Each participant was encouraged to bring their own unique heart, language, and lived experiences into their new role, ensuring that the aid provided feels personal and empowering. It was emphasized that disaster case management is not just a job, but a promise to support survivors until they can truly call their space “home” again.

The benefits of this training were felt almost immediately. Within just two weeks of completing the program, one newly trained case manager presented a compelling case at the Hoʻōla iā LTRG’s Resources Roundtable, leading to successful funding from partner organizations. This quick success illustrates the potential impact of the training, with more case submissions already on the horizon.

Community Collaboration at Its Best

As organizations work together, it’s evident that the training has provided a much-needed boost in delivering holistic services to clients. The experience was greatly appreciated, with many staff members expressing hope that these types of initiatives will inspire similar programs nationwide. There’s a shared understanding among participants of their new responsibility to ensure that community members are remembered and not overlooked during critical moments.

The training was made possible thanks to the support from the American Red Cross. In addition to this effort, the U.S. Department of Labor has awarded $2.5 million to Hawaii specifically aimed at continuing employment and training services for communities affected by the wildfires. This funding is part of a much larger $21 million Disaster Recovery Grant, focused on aiding cleanup and recovery activities.

The Maui Recovery Funders Collaborative Takes Action

A new, collaborative effort called the Maui Recovery Funders Collaborative (MRFC) has been introduced to streamline disaster recovery funding. This initiative includes significant organizations such as the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation, Kaiser Permanente, and Maui United Way. Since its inception, the MRFC has remarkably raised over $19 million in funding for local organizations to assist in various recovery efforts.

The MRFC serves as a one-stop shop for funding applications, greatly simplifying the process for organizations in need. It encourages community-driven solutions while ensuring that direct input from community members shapes funding priorities. The focus is on addressing immediate needs while also fostering resilience against future impacts.

Sustainable Recovery is the Goal

With the MRFC leading the charge, the emphasis is placed on adaptability, allowing the collaborative to meet evolving community priorities throughout the recovery process effectively. Contributions from Kaiser Permanente have further bolstered critical initiatives, such as the Maui Wildfire Exposure Study and the establishment of a behavioral health resiliency center.

Overall, these combined efforts represent a sincere commitment to creating a sustainable model for community recovery, ensuring that all those affected have the comprehensive support they need as they reclaim their lives. The dedication and collaboration among these organizations is nothing short of inspiring, and it’s clear that the road to recovery is being paved with teamwork and compassion.