Understanding Community Needs

Rapid Community Analysis

While existing data can inform many decisions, truly assessing an affected community's sentiments and needs can require an on-the-ground approach. Consider conducting a Rapid Community Analysis (RCA). During an RCA, you will: 

• Get statistical data about the population and demographics

• Conduct interviews, listening sessions, online surveys, and social listening tools

• Summarize findings: what’s working well, a list of challenges/concerns

• Develop recommendations and prioritize by impact

Building Community Resilience and Risk Management

Community resilience is an affected community's ability to persevere and recover from a disaster. The RAND Corporation produced a roadmap that identifies important elements of community resilience and suggests a list of strengthening exercises for building resilience. Read Building Community Resilience to Disasters: A Way Forward to Enhance National Security.