NYDIS Releases Disaster Mental Health & Spiritual Care Manual
The “ NYDIS Manual for New York City Religious Leaders: Mental Health and Spiritual Care for
Disaster Response and Recovery” is a comprehensive resource tool to enable NYC religious leaders to
best serve their congregations and the public as they respond to and recover from disasters. Its 19 chapters
were written by 16 disaster mental health and spiritual care experts. Organized in three sections,
Preparation & Mitigation, Response & Recovery, and Reference & Resources, the Manual offers an
overview of the lifecycle of disasters, discusses the role of faith leaders throughout these phases, and
provides information on skill sets, training resources and effective clinical and pastoral best practices.
Download the Manual:
http://www.nydis.org/resources/headlines/2007_09_24.php
::
NYDIS and LDRNY Expand Workers' Comp WTC Outreach Efforts
A recent grant from the Lutheran Disaster Response of New York (LDRNY) is helping NYDIS conduct outreach throughout
the five boroughs and Long Island to promote the deadline extension for 9/11 World Trade Center Workers’
Compensation Registration. LDRNY’s grant will help cover the costs of printing and mailing WTC
Workers’ Compensation to houses of worship, trade unions and immigrant groups in NYC and on Long Island.
Download the WTC Registration Brochure: click here
::
NYDIS ED to Address "Relief & Recovery Ethics" for Disaster Management Students
Peter Gudaitis, Executive Director, will lead a class on “Relief & Recovery Ethics” at the
Metropolitan College of NY's (MCNY) Office of Career Services' "Networking in the Field of Emergency and
Disaster Management" seminar on Saturday, October 20. The class presents information on a variety of topics to
help alumni and graduate students enhance their networking skills. Metropolitan is the only accredited college in
NYC that offers an MPA degree in disaster management - currently the fifth fastest growing profession in the US.
The class is taught by MCNY faculty and NYDIS board member, Ali Gheith, Coordinator of Population-Based
Resilience, Office of Mental Health Disaster Preparedness, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
MCNY Program Information and Courses:
www.metropolitan.edu/publicaffairs/mpa_emergency.php
212.343.1234 x5001
admissions@mcny.edu
www.metropolitan.edu
::
NYDIS Board President & ED to Speak at Riverside Church
On Sunday, October 28, NYDIS Board President, The Rev. Dr. Martha Jacobs, with Executive Director, Peter Gudaitis,
will be featured speakers at the Science and Religion Resource Center’s Village Forum panel at Riverside
Church. The title of this month's forum is "Coordinating Our Caring: New York City, Disaster Preparedness, and
the Church," and will cover NYC and natural disasters, a look at the social justice issues involved,
chaplaincy in times of disaster, and the need for interfaith cooperation, in preparing for, responding to, and
recovering from a disaster. The Village Forum will be from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. The church is located at 490 Riverside
Drive, between 120th and 122nd Streets.
www.theriversidechurchny.org
::
NYDIS ED Addresses CA Citizen Corps Conference on Preparedness
The California Citizen Corps presented its 2nd Annual National Emergency Preparedness Conference in Sacramento, CA
on October 11-13. The conference focused on the theme, “Take the Lead in Disaster Readiness.” Panels and
workshop topics included: Socio-Economic Impact of Disasters, Creating Vigilant, Resilient, Prepared Communities in
Homeland Security, Neighborhood Emergency Training, Animal Rescue and Preparedness, Pandemic Awareness,
Preparedness and Response for Educational Institutions, Community Emergency Response Teams, Disaster Preparedness
for Tribal Communities, Organizing Communities to Prepare for Disasters, and Psychological Preparation for
Disasters. NYDIS Executive Director Peter Gudaitis was the featured speaker for “The Role of Faith-Based
Organizations in Disaster Preparedness” plenary.
www.srccc.org/
:: NYC
9/11 Unmet Needs Roundtable Updates
-
NYC 9/11 In-Service Training for Case Workers
In-Service Training is required for case workers who have never presented a case at the
Roundtable, and is recommended as
a refresher for experienced case workers who have previously presented cases. All
training
sessions take place at NYDIS ( map).
-
NYC 9/11 Unmet Needs Roundtable Schedule
The NYC 9/11 Unmet Needs Roundtable brings together donors with agencies providing case
management
to 9/11 victims. Case Workers who would like to present a case must sign-up by Friday
prior to
the meeting of the Roundtable. Due to the influx of
cases
which need presenting, the 9/11 Unmet Needs Roundtable will be adding an additional
Wednesday date
each month. There will now be three meetings a month, instead of two.
-
Thursday, October 18 - 9:30-12:00 pm (Open: 1 Emergency Case)
-
Wednesday, October 24 - 9:30-12:00 pm (Open: 2 Emergency & 2 Recovery Cases)
-
Thursday, November 1 - 9:30-12:00 pm (Open: 2 Emergency & 2 Recovery Cases)
-
Thursday, November 15 – 9:30-12:00 pm (Open: 2 Emergency & 7 Recovery Cases )
Contact Lida Mora, Moderator, NYC 9/11 Unmet Needs Roundtable
212.669.6139
lmora@nydis.org
-
NYC 9/11 Case Management Coordination Meetings
NYDIS hosts monthly Case Management Coordination meetings for service providers that are assisting
9/11 recovery workers
and the general 9/11-affected community. These meetings are open to representatives from any
service providers that wish to coordinate and share information about their services and the
community's needs.
- Wednesday, October 17 - 9:30-11:00 am
:: NYC 9/11 Recovery Resources
A comprehensive list of news, updates and resources for 9/11 victims and
injured
recovery workers, updated weekly:
www.nydis.org/911
::
NYC Katrina Evacuee Recovery
Resources
www.nydis.org/katrina
::
Upstate NY 2006 Flood Recovery Resources
www.nydis.org/floods
::
NYS & NJ 2007 Nor’easter Recovery Resources:
www.nydis.org/recovery/13.php
:: 8/8/2007 Severe Flooding/Tornado Recovery Resources
The latest information, updates and recovery services for those impacted by the August 8, 2007 NYC
tornado and flooding:
www.nydis.org/tornado
::
9/11 Workers' Compensation Registration Deadline Extended One Year-Aug. 14, 2008
 NYDIS urges 9/11 chaplains, recovery workers and volunteers to
register now to protect their right to
workers'
compensation benefits. NYDIS and New York Committee for
Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) in collaboration with other agencies is mounting a media campaign to
inform workers
throughout the country about the necessity of registering by the deadline.
Download the brochure (pdf):
English | Español
Call for registration guidelines: 866.WTC.2556
::
WTC Health Registry's Resource Guide
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) has created a WTC Health Registry Resource Guide
for people affected by 9/11. The guide includes information about occupational, respiratory, environmental, and
mental health facilities as well as other services and resources.
Download the Resource Guide: click here
::
Mayor Bloomberg's London Trip: Surveillance Cameras for Buses/Trains
Back from his tour of London's anti-terror security measures, NYC’s Mayor Bloomberg urged the
Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) to deploy surveillance cameras on buses and trains. Pointing to the July 2005
subway bombings in London that killed 52 people, he said, "In London, they have two or three cameras on every
single subway car, they have two or three cameras on every single bus." Surveillance cameras helped identify
the bombers, and also captured images of a failed bombing attempt later that month. So far, the MTA has installed
cameras in 122 buses in Manhattan.
Read the October 3 NY Daily News article by Kathleen Lucadamo and Pete Donohue:
www.nydailynews.com/news/2007/10/03/2007-10-03_bloomberg_get_surveillance_cameras_for_b-2.html
::
NYPD'S "Ring of Steel" Monitors License Plates in Lower Manhattan
A high-tech camera in Lower Manhattan is monitoring the license plates of passing cars periodically in a test of
NYC's planned "Ring of Steel" surveillance system. The camera is part of the New York Police
Department’s (NYPD) Lower Manhattan Security Initiative, an $81.5 million plan to protect the Financial
District with more than 100 license plate readers, thousands of surveillance cameras and barriers that could
automatically block streets. The plan is nicknamed the "Ring of Steel," based on a similar project that
encircles central London, which Mayor Bloomberg watched in action during his visit there.
Read the October 1 NY Daily News article by Adam Lisberg:
www.nydailynews.com/news/2007/10/01/2007-10-01_nypds_ring_of_steel_camera_rolls_monitor.html?print=1
::
White House Releases New National Strategy for Homeland Security
The White House released on October 9 its latest report on Homeland Security, “National Strategy for Homeland
Security,” which “recognizes that while we must continue to focus on the persistent and evolving
terrorist threat, we also must address the full range of potential catastrophic events, including man-made and
natural disasters, due to their implications for homeland security. The purpose of our Strategy is to guide,
organize, and unify our Nation's homeland security efforts. It provides a common framework by which our entire
Nation should focus its efforts on the following four goals: Prevent and disrupt terrorist attacks; Protect the
American people, our critical infrastructure, and key resources; Respond to and recover from incidents that do
occur; and Continue to strengthen the foundation to ensure our long-term success.”
Download the Homeland Security Council’s October 2007 “National Strategy for Homeland Security”:
www.whitehouse.gov/infocus/homeland/nshs/NSHS.pdf
Read the October 10 Washington Post article by Spencer Hsu and William Branigin:
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/10/09/AR2007100901026.html
::
Emergency-Response Network for Info Sharing & Coordination
A new information-sharing network aims to provide emergency-response coordination at the local level and in the
private sector, using interactive maps and breaking news alerts on wireless text devices, as well as a national
database of community stakeholders. The Corporate Crisis Response Officers Association, headed by Asa Hutchinson,
former Homeland Security Undersecretary, is “recruiting private-, public- and community-sector leaders through
media, pilot projects and organizational agreements" to be crisis-response officers in the network. Test
projects for the network are under way in three communities.
Read the September 28 National Journal’s Technology Daily article by Winter Casey:
www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?articleid=38163&dcn=e_gvet
::
NYC Announces Design Competition for Post-Disaster Housing
Mayor Michael Bloomberg and OEM Commissioner Joseph Bruno launched the “What If New York City…”
housing design competition, which seeks innovative approaches to sheltering victims in the aftermath of a disaster.
With potentially thousands of residents displaced from their homes, and fully rebuilding communities could take
several years, provisional housing could be used in the interim. With a scenario focusing on a fictional
neighborhood hit by a Category 3 hurricane, leaving 38,000 families without housing, entrants are asked to design a
provisional housing plan that could be used by emergency planners in real life. This design competition
complements the City’s Coastal Storm Plan (CSP), which dictates how NYC would respond to a coastal storm
emergency. The City intends to incorporate aspects of the competition’s winning submissions into the
sheltering component of the plan.
For information on the competition, including eligibility, schedule, and judging criteria:
www.nyc.gov/html/whatifnyc/html/home/home.shtml
From Our Members &
Partners
-
Empire State Building to Turn Green for Eid
For the first time in its history, the world famous Empire State Building in NYC will be lit in green from
Friday, October 12 to Sunday, October 14 in celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims
throughout the world observe a joyous three-day celebration which marks the end of Ramadan, called Eid-ul-Fitr.
The color green symbolizes the solidarity and life-giving abundance of the Islamic faith. From this year on,
lighting on Eid will become an annual event.
-
NYC Citizen Corps Council Quarterly Meeting: Wednesday, November 14
The next quarterly meeting will be held at the American Red Cross in Greater NY headquarters at 520 West
49th Street from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. This meeting will focus on strategies to engage immigrant
communities on becoming more prepared for all emergencies.
RSVP to Herman Schaffer, MSW, Community Outreach Disaster Education Coordinator, OEM:
718.422.4821
hschaffer@oem.nyc.gov
ADVOCACY & BACKLASH MITIGATION
-
Sikhs Raise Concerns at TSA Meeting in DC
The Sikh Coalition participated in a meeting October 10 with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA),
where it directly raised religious profiling concerns to TSA Administrator Hawley. In response to the Sikh
Coalition’s alerting the community to the new TSA headwear search policy, the TSA has taken a number of steps
to address community concerns: the headwear search policy is being reevaluated, the TSA is advising its
screeners to offer air travelers the option of going though trace portals (Puff Machines) as an alternative to
manual patting down, the TSA's Office of Civil Rights and Liberties will visit San Francisco International Airport
to investigate complaints from Sikhs there, it has updated its website to make complaint filing easier, it will
make the "On Common Ground" video mandatory viewing for all screeners, it has issued an educational
poster on common Sikh coverings for all airports, and it will issue a Fact Sheet for Travelers on its headwear
search policies to inform the public on what to expect when going through security.
www.sikhcoalition.org
-
MPAC Builds Bridges in the Community
The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) is a public service agency working for the civil rights of
American Muslims, for the integration of Islam into American pluralism, and for a positive, constructive
relationship between American Muslims and their representatives. The just released "Recommended Mosque
Guidelines" is part of MPAC's broader counter-terrorism and civil rights campaign and is intended for
Imams and Muslim community leaders. For law enforcement, they have two guides, "Mosque Etiquette"
and "Cultural Considerations" for interacting with the Muslim community, which were developed with
the US Department of Justice and other ethnic communities to educate federal, state, and local agencies about
interaction with opposite gender, dress, and perception of law enforcement in general.
Read the Guidelines page:
www.mpac.org/ngcft/mosque-guidelines/
-
About NYDISNET and NYDISNET Alerts
Welcome to
NYDISNET, our bi-weekly e-newsletter. We hope this resource will keep you
updated about the work
of NYDIS and developments in disaster readiness, response and recovery initiatives here in New York City. During
emergencies we will send a NYDISNET ALERT to all
subscribers. The alert will include all official information available through the NYC Office of Emergency
Management and news from our members and partners. Please feel free to copy and distribute any information from
NYDISNET that you find helpful. If you would like to distribute
NYDISNET to your agency staff or faith community leaders please let us
know - we're happy to provide that service free of charge.
-
Have You Registered with HOWCALM™?
 NYDIS has developed and made available, free to NYC faith communities and houses of
worhship, a
secure, web-based database system for managing faith-based assets in times of crisis. By tracking the
logistics and resources of houses of worship, religious schools and faith-based service providers, the
system enhancing the preparedness, response capacity and emergency planning efforts in NYC. Enrolling your
congregation will include enrollment in emergency communication systems, disaster training opportunities and
enhance NYDIS’ ability to work in partnership with OEM and Human Service agencies to include your
house of worship in all-hazards planning.
For more information download the brochure on pdf: click here
To register your House of Worship: click here
-
NYDIS' "Disaster Tip Sheets for NYC Religious Leaders"
On August 8, 2007, NYDIS released a set of fifteen "Disaster Tip Sheets for NYC Religious
Leaders."
Each one- to four-page tip sheet provides a basic orientation to important information and resources about
disaster readiness, response, and recovery issues of key importance to the clergy and religious leaders
of New
York City's houses of worship and faith communities. The Tip Sheets are a free resource to provide
our
religious leaders with a basic orientation to the skills and tools they will need in times of crisis. They are
to
be used for mitigation education and preparedness training orientation or as a quick reference in times of
crisis.
Clergy and religious leaders are the first source of communication and leadership in the
houses of
worship, neighborhoods, and faith communities where they serve.
The Tip Sheets can be downloaded below. Please share them those who will benefit from this useful
information. If
the material is quoted or duplicated in other resources, please acknowledge the source. To view a Tip Sheet,
click on the link next to the title:
- Disaster Basics for Faith Communities: click here
- The Role of Faith Communities in Disasters: click here
- The Disaster Lifecycle: Where Do Religious Leaders Fit In?: click here
- Faith Communities & Evacuation Planning: click here
- Faith Communities & Disaster Sheltering: click here
- How to Use Your House of Worship in a Disaster: click here
- Faith Communities & Disaster Volunteerism: click here
- Faith Communities & Donations Management: click here
- Continuity of Operations Planning: Ministry & Services Post-Disaster: click here
- Disaster Spiritual Care: click here
- Self-Care for Religious Leaders: click here
- Faith Communities & Disaster Mental Health: click here
- Trauma Resilience and Harm Reduction in the Community: click here
- Disaster Backlash: Bias Crimes & Mitigation: click here
- National Faith-Based Disaster Service Organizations: click here
Go to the Tip Sheets page on the NYDIS website to download each Tip Sheet: click here
Or go to www.nydis.org.
-
Downloadable Ready NY Preparedness Guides
OEM's Ready NY preparedness campaign is designed to help New Yorkers better prepare for all types of
emergencies. The following Ready NY preparedness guides and brochures are available online, most in
multiple languages:
-
OEM Publishes New "Ready NY Business" Guide
The NYC Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and Department of Small Business Services (SBS) just released
the Ready NY for Business Guide, the newest addition to the Ready NY public education campaign. While many
large companies have in-house emergency planners and business continuity professionals, NYC’s small,
family-owned establishments do not have the resources for a disaster planning staff. This new guide outlines
simple steps business owners and managers can take to prepare for any emergency, whether it’s a fire,
power outage, hurricane, or terrorist attack. The guide is available online in four languages or in hard
copy by calling 311.
The Guide offers these Tips:
- Identify the hazards most likely to affect your business.
- Plan how to communicate with employees, suppliers, and clients if you cannot access your business or
provide expected services.
- Back up computer data and important documents like licenses and business certificates and store them
somewhere off-site.
Download the Ready NY for Business Guide:
http://nyc.gov/html/oem/html/ready/biz_guide.shtml
Learn about emergency planning for business:
http://nyc.gov/html/oem/html/businesses/businesses.shtml
-
DHS Declares 4th Annual National Preparedness Month a Success
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that a record number of national, regional, state, and
local organizations participated in its 4th annual National Preparedness Month. More than 1,800 coalition
members coordinated at least 1,000 events and activities across America, reaching individuals, families, and
diverse communities with the message of emergency preparedness. DHS’s Citizen Corps and its program
partners offered preparedness trainings and education, as well as opportunities for citizens to engage in
efforts in their local communities.
Read the October 5 DHS Press Release:
www.dhs.gov/xnews/releases/pr_1191616786962.shtm
-
DHS' New Preparedness Resources For Seniors, Disabled & Pets
The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Ready Campaign released three new demonstration videos on
the specific steps older Americans, individuals with disabilities and special needs, and pet owners should
take to prepare for emergencies. DHS worked with AARP, the National Organization on Disability, and The
Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) to develop these new emergency preparedness resources. The new
videos are released in time for National Preparedness Month 2007, a nationwide effort held each September to
encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies.
To view the Videos:
www.ready.gov/america/about/instructional_index.html
-
OEM Contest: Be the Ready New Yorker of the Month & Win a Go Bag
 Calling all Ready New Yorkers! Are you prepared for an emergency? If so, OEM
wants to hear your story.
OEM invites New Yorkers to share stories of how they have prepared for emergencies
through the Ready
New Yorker of the Month contest. Each month, residents may submit their preparedness
testimonials to OEM
and the winner will be named the “Ready New Yorker of the Month” and receive two
Go Bags,
backpacks with basic supplies residents should have on hand for use in an emergency. Explain
how you got
through any type of emergency or how you plan to combat any disaster that comes your way.
Inspire other New
Yorkers to get prepared by sharing your story of preparedness on the OEM website.
Learn more about the Contest:
www.nyc.gov/html/oem/html/ready/ready_contest.shtml
-
Flooding Preparedness
-
Con Ed Provides Storm Preparedness Measures
In the event of a major storm or severe weather, Con Ed provides information and tips on its website for food
and water, the use of dry ice, making a storm checklist and information on weather.
Con Ed’s Storm Preparedness information:
www.coned.com/sm/stormprepare.asp
-
Hurricane Preparedness
-
OEM Hurricane Tip: What's Your Plan?
Hurricane season is here. Unlike most hazards, we can predict when a hurricane is coming.
Unfortunately, that still means most people wait until the last minute to get prepared. Don't
procrastinate; use the calm before the storm to make a plan with your family to weather the storm season
safely.
Download the Ready NY: Hurricanes and NYC Guide: click here
-
The Weather Service's Storm Ready Center
Each year, Americans cope with an average of 10,000 thunderstorms, 5,000 floods, 1,000 tornadoes, as
well as an average of 6 deadly hurricanes. Potentially deadly weather impacts every American. The
National Weather Service’s (NWS) StormReady® program, started in 1999 in Tulsa, OK, helps
arm
America's communities with the communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property,
before and during the event. Most importantly, StormReady helps community leaders and emergency
managers strengthen local safety programs through better planning, education, and awareness.
www.stormready.noaa.gov/
-
Website Offers Customized Hurricane Preparedness Plan
OneStorm is a free tool to help prepare for this hurricane season by building a hurricane kit, planning
for pets, and identifying your flood risk. Designed to incorporate information and recommendations from
the American Red Cross (ARC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as well as from local and
state emergency management agencies, OneStorm promises customized storm planning for residents in
hurricane-prone areas.
www.onestorm.org/
-
Pandemic Flu Preparedness
-
Flu Preparedness Guide for Faith Communities
Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) has developed several audience specific brochures that
will help guide you and your organization through the pandemic planning process. One that is of
particular interest to the NYDISnet readership is
entitled, “It’s Not Flu As Usual: What Faith Based and Community Organizations Need
to Know about Pandemic Flu.”
Download the Booklet:
http://healthyamericans.org/reports/flu/brochures/FluBrochureFaith.pdf
-
CDC's Faith/Community Partnership Pandemic Report
Faith-based and community-based organizations (FBCOs) are essential partners in helping people to
prepare for an influenza pandemic and in protecting the public’s health and safety should a Flu
Pandemic occur. Dr. Scott Santibañez, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s
(CDC) Associate Director for Partnerships with Faith-Based/Community Organizations, has just released
an article to help clarify the threat of pandemic influenza and to actively engage readers in
preparing
for a severe influenza pandemic. The report emphasizes how FBCOs can ensure that people in need are
provided for and that care is provided in a way that minimizes stigma and other negative social
responses.
Read Dr. Santibañez’s entire article: click here
Additional information is available from the CDC Hotline:
1.800.CDC.INFO (1.800.232.4636). This line is available in English and Spanish, 24 hours a day, 7
days a week.
TTY: 1.888.232.6348.
Questions?
cdcinfo@cdc.gov
-
Pet Preparedness
-
OEM Tip: Don't Forget Your Pet
After Katrina, OEM introduced Ready New York for Pets - a guide for pet owners on how to care for
pets during an emergency. OEM encourages all pet owners to include pets in their disaster plans. Think
about where you will go with your pet and how you will get there if you have to leave home during an
emergency. Know what you will do if an emergency prevents you from returning home to your pet. Put
together a pet Go Bag.
Download Ready NY Pet Guide:
www.nyc.gov/html/oem/html/ready/pets_guide.shtml
-
Preparing Pets in Case of a Hurricane
Now is the time for pet owners to get prepared by creating a plan and gathering supplies when a
hurricane strikes. "The key to survival during a disaster for you and your animals is to be as
prepared as possible before the storm hits," says Randy Covey, director of disaster services
for
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). There are over 358 million companion animals living
in American homes. According to national surveys post-Hurricane Katrina, 61 percent of pet owners
will not leave their companion animals behind during a disaster, which highlights the need for pet
owners to prepare.
Learn what you need to know at the HSUS Hurricane Preparedness Page:
www.hsus.org/press_and_publications/press_releases/_hurricane_preparedness_week.html
-
FEMA Urges Pet Preparedness
Animals left behind in disasters can become a risk for emergency responders, and be at risk themselves
of health complications, getting lost, injured or killed. Preparing for pet evacuation and sheltering
may seem complex at first, but it is as easy and effective as preparing for any emergency your family
may encounter. Learn what to prepare and what to take with you in an emergency. Then you need to know
where to go. Not all shelters allow pets. Some do take pets, but they are kept in a separate
section. You will need a transport such as a cage or crate and a leash.
Read FEMA’s September 27 Press Release:
www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=41089
FEMA has more information on developing a Pet Preparedness Plan:
ww.fema.gov/plan/prepare/animals.shtm
Download the DHS Ready America Pets brochure:
www.ready.gov/america/getakit/pets.html
-
Preparedness Guide for the Underserved
Operation HOPE, a national organization focused on bringing financial literacy and empowerment to
underserved US communities offers the ”Personal Disaster Preparedness Guide,” under its HOPE
Coalition America program, which serves as a resource network of companies, including banking, financial
services, and insurance as well as government, social service and emergency relief organizations that
mobilize to respond to disasters.
Download the Personal Disaster Preparedness Guide:
www.operationhope.org/pdpg/
-
Add Your Info to www.NYDIS.org Resource Library
Do you
have a useful resource for caseworkers, recovery providers and clients that you would like to submit? The
NYDIS Resource Library on our website contains a large compilation of
disaster resources including downloadable documents,
links to useful websites, and references to printed publications. We welcome your agency's resources,
which can be
posted on NYDIS.org by clicking on the "Resources" Tab. You will then find directions on how to
" Submit a Resource".
www.nydis.org
-
Religious Leader Roles in an Avian Flu Pandemic
The Reverend Phillip C. Cato, Ph.D. asks, “So, why are we religious leaders a particularly
significant cohort of our society in need of learning about this potential threat and especially in need
of preparing for it?” He recently posted a paper on Episcopal Relief and Development's disaster
listserv. After being asked by the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, he put together a planning
document on the pandemic threat for parish churches which contains a description of the disease, parish
communication strategies, education and training suggestions, quarantine issues, legal and financial
considerations, ethical concerns, and a reference and resource list. Rev. Cato reminds clergy
that, “Spiritual discipline, prayer, and serious reflection on the nature of your vocation will
be invaluable preparation for your response in a crisis.”
Read Rev. Cato’s Paper: click here
-
Article: Spirituality/Medicine Interface Project
The September 2007 issue of the Southern Medical Journal’s Spirituality/Medicine
Interface Project focuses on what physicians need to know about spirituality and natural and man-made
disasters. In his Introduction about these articles, Dr. Harold G. Koenig duly notes, of particular
relevance to NYDISnet readers, the third section of articles, which, “…examines the role of
faith communities during disasters. In the first article, Martin Feldbush describes what clergy and
counselors do to meet the psychological, social, and spiritual needs of disaster victims. Then, Kevin
Massey, a director at Lutheran Disaster Response, discusses the role of faith communities in responding
to disasters and explores efforts among religious groups to coordinate their disaster response. Three
articles present a Jewish, a Muslim, and a Buddhist perspective on coping with disaster.
Download Dr. Koenig’s Introduction: click here
www.sma.org
-
NYC Corporate ID System Assures Continuity of Business
The Corporate Emergency Access System (CEAS) is a pre-emergency credentialing program which authenticates
critical business employees for access to restricted areas following a disaster or serious emergency using a
secure identification card recognized by the police. This City ID system allows critical employees access to
your primary service facility during a city emergency to maintain vital service or administrative functions.
NYDIS, is a participant, believing this is an important feature of own continuity of operations planning,
recommends you review the brochure to determine if this is a program in which you’d like to participate.
Download the CEAS 2006 Brochure: click here
Read how NYC OEM activated CEAS following the July 27 Steam Pipe Explosion:
https://ceas.com/news/20070727-1-Manhattan-steam-explosion.pdf
https://ceas.com/
-
DOHMH Launches New 9/11 Health Website
Marking the sixth anniversary of 9/11, the NYC Health Department (DOHMH) has launched a new website to provide
up-to-date scientific information about the disaster’s lingering health effects and to highlight the services
available to those affected. It also includes easily accessible research findings and treatment options for the
different groups of affected people: rescue and recovery workers, residents, children, city employees and others.
Visit the 9/11 Health Website:
www.nyc.gov/9-11HealthInfo
-
HAN Web System Alerts NYC’s Health Providers
The NYC Health Alert Network (HAN), a web-based alerting system from the NYC Department of Health and
Mental Hygiene (DOHMH),
provides doctors and other medical providers with up-to-date information on urgent and emergent public
health issues.
To register:
1.888.NYCMED9
www.nyc.gov/health/nycmed
Download the HAN PowerPoint presentation: click here
-
Updated Emergency Resources for At-Risk Populations
The new version of the workbook, "Locating and Reaching At-Risk Populations in an Emergency," first
released last fall, is just out. At-risk populations include those who are physically or mentally disabled
(blind, deaf, hard-of-hearing, cognitive disorders, or with mobility limitations), people with limited English
language skills, geographically or culturally isolated people, homeless people, elderly individuals, and
children. This workbook from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC), and Coordinating Office for Terrorism Preparedness and Emergency Response
(COTPER) provides resources and information for effective planning for emergency preparedness and response.
Resource Guide 2007: click here
Workbook Manual 2007: click here
Inserts Manual 2007: click here
For further information, contact Mary Burt, NYS Department of Health:
518.474.5370
mpb06@health.state.ny.us
-
Tribute WTC Visitors Center Features Children's 9/11 Art
The Tribute WTC Visitors Center is hosting a new exhibition, Coming Together: Our Children Respond to 9/11
with Hope for the Future. The show, which runs through January 18, features paintings, collages and multimedia
created between 2001 and 2006 by children in NY, NJ and PA. All of the work was created with the support of
parents and teachers who recognized the strong need young people had and have to express their reactions to the
catastrophic events of 9/11. It is at 120 Liberty Street on the South Side of Ground Zero.
See some of the pictures at the WTC Tribute website:
www.tributenyc.org/
-
PlainViews: E-Newsletter for Spiritual Care Providers
Subscribe to this bi-monthly e-newsletter offering views on Professional Practice, Advocacy, Education
& Research, and Spiritual Development.
Sponsored by the HealthCare Chaplaincy in NYC and edited by NYDIS Board President The Rev. Dr. Martha
Jacobs.
Send your email address to:
info@plainviews.org
www.plainviews.org
-
"Disasters: Recipes and Remedies" Conference
Thursday, November 1 - Friday, November 2
Manhattan
Leading experts will explore the commonalities of all disasters. They will examine the unequal protection
and treatment of populations made vulnerable by their location and or socioeconomic status; the impact of
disasters on the economy and overall human development; how hazards develop into disasters; and how design
factors either mitigate or amplify their effects. Nicholas Scoppetta, Fire Commissioner of NYC will give the
keynote address, followed by questions and answers with Bob Kerrey, President of The New School. It will be
held at The New School at
For information and conference details:
212.229.5776 x3121
socres@newschool.edu
For the Agenda: click here
http://socres.org/disasters/
-
IAEM 55th 2007 Annual Conference
November 11-15
Reno, Nevada
"Partners in Emergency Management: Working Together", this year’s topic from the
International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), provides a forum for current trends and topics,
information about the latest tools and technology in emergency management and homeland security. For
emergency managers, homeland security officials, first response coordinators, and contingency planners.
Conference details:
www.iaem.com/events/annual/intro.htm
-
WTC Health Registry Public Meeting
Wednesday, November 14
Manhattan
The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) is presenting the annual World Trade Center Health
Registry (WTCHR) at Pace University (downtown Manhattan campus) from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. Space is limited.
Contact Rebecca Friedland-Little, Public Health Educator Trainee, WTCHR:
212.442.2408
Rfriedl1@health.nyc.gov
Job & Volunteer Opportunities
-
NYDIS, Office Volunteers
NYDIS is seeking office volunteers to support the finance and disaster preparedness/training departments,
and to answer
phones and perform administrative duties for 20 hours per week. Positions begin immediately.
To apply, please email your Cover Letter and Resume to:
pgudaitis@nydis.org or fax to 212.669.6101.
-
FEMA, Disaster-Related Job Opportunities
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is expanding and there are new jobs listed in the New York area,
as well as every FEMA Regional Office around the country.
To see the list of jobs, and to get instructions on how to apply:
http://jobsearch.usajobs.opm.gov/
-
HWCLI, Disaster Advocate and Recovery Coordinator
The Health & Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI) seeks an individual to oversee and coordinate two
disaster-related programs: the 9/11 Unmet Needs Roundtable and the Long Island Voluntary Organizations Active in
Disaster (LIVOAD).
For details about this position: click here
To apply, submit Cover Letter and Resume to:
Loule Gebremedhin
lgebrem@hwcli.com
-
NYC DOHMH, MRC Program Associate, Emergency Management Div.
The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) is looking for an individual with experience and
skills that can be leveraged to recruit, train and retain volunteer health professionals for its growing
Bureau of Emergency Management. The candidate for a Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) Program Associate in
Manhattan should have strong interpersonal and communication skills, familiarity with marketing, training,
volunteer management, event coordination, and/or related activities, and an interest in working in Public
Health Preparedness.
Submit your resume online:
www.mhra.org
For details about the position:
click here
-
NYC OEM, Job Opportunities
For all of the positions currently available at the NYC Office of Emergency Management (OEM), including
emergency management personnel, responders, planners, and administrative and support staff, please go directly
to the OEM “Job Opportunities” website page:
www.nyc.gov/html/oem/html/abou/job.shtml
-
Support NYDIS - Donate Online
 If you'd
like to make a donation to assist NYDIS in its mission of providing faith-based disaster services,
click here, or send a check to NYDIS
at 22 Cortlandt Street,
20th Fl., New York, NY 10007. NYDIS is a 501(c)(3)
corporation and contributions are 100% tax deductible. It is a great way to
honor or memorialize someone and we will send an acknowledgement of your gift.
To donate online, go to the NYDIS homepage and click "Make a Donation":
www.nydis.org
|
|
Online 9/11 Client Inquiry
Form