Open Registration for Second Annual Emergency Preparedness Event

Senator Mike Morrell (R-Rancho Cucamonga) will partner with Building Resilient Communities to host the second annual "Ark of Safety Forum" on Aug. 15. This event is an opportunity for Inland Empire faith community leaders to learn best practices in responding to natural disasters or other emergencies. "In the chaos that immediately follows a catastrophic event, the government cannot always get aid to affected areas quickly," said Morrell. "In these situations, people often turn to houses of worship for help. Inevitably, recovery from such situations becomes a community-wide effort. The Ark of Safety Forum provides clergy and other leaders tools that will prepare them to provide assistance to their congregants and neighbors." In cases of severe natural disasters, it can be as long as 72 hours before federal, state, or local government responders are able to reach those who need help. To ensure a strong safety net during these times, it is important to bring government, non-profits, and faith-based organizations together so that they can develop and coordinate disaster preparedness efforts in advance. The forum is open to faith leaders of all denominations and religions. Breakout workshops include advice from experts on ways to involve congregations in providing care and shelter, walk-throughs of various emergency scenarios, and other useful topics. A continental breakfast and lunch will be provided. Supporters include: AmPac Tri State CDC, Southern California Edison, San Bernardino County Office of Emergency Services, San Bernardino County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), Riverside County VOAD, the American Red Cross, Inland Empire Concerned African American Churches, Southern California VOAD, Community Access Center, and Rolling Start. This year's event will take place on Aug. 15, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will be held at the San Jacinto Assembly of God, located at 300 W. First Street in San Jacinto.