In January 2017, FEMA launched the Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) External Stakeholder Workgroup (ESWG). The HMA ESWG is comprised of representatives from FEMA regions, states, Indian tribes, territories, and local mitigation stakeholders who share their perspectives on HMA priorities, issues, and program resources, and help inform communication strategies on the HMA programs.
As part of carrying out their work, the ESWG members have formed subgroups to focus on specific topics. One subgroup, the Online HMA Knowledge and Support Forum, is working to create an online resource where information can be exchanged, conversations encouraged, and HMA applicants can find peer-to-peer advice and guidance. One aspect of this work is identify and promote HMA project success stories. As part of this, the ESWG is requesting mitigation stakeholders submit success stories in your community, your organization, or a partner in mitigation you’ve met along the way.
FEMA is looking for success stories with the following in mind:
- The success story should not exceed one page.
- Please include pertinent and descriptive facts, such as the organization/community name, project description, date of completion, and the HMA grant amount and program (e.g. HMGP, FMA, PDM).
- Projects submitted as success stories should have been completed within the last 18 months.
- The ESWG is looking for all types of projects, big and small, and for any hazard type to help encourage a wide range of application submittals.
- Personal aspects of the project are encouraged including stories illustrating the positive impacts of the mitigation on the community and or/ residents. Examples of this could be an interview with a resident that has benefited from the project, or an account of how the project will avoid disruptions in the community or help speed a post-disaster recovery.
- The success story should make sure to include the URL address/link, if available, for more information and photos on the project. If a URL is not available, please include the info for a point of contact who can answer questions about the project if needed.
Photos or other graphics of the project should be attached to the same email and submitted along with the success story.
Please submit all success stories by Tuesday, August 15, 2017 to [email protected].
Please note that all submittals will be provided to the ESWG for review and further use. FEMA is providing support for the ESWG to facilitate the submittal of these success stories. The ESWG will determine the success stories selected for further promotion.