Free Emergency Plan Writing Program
for Houses of Worship and Faith Communities

Some congregations are just getting started in their preparedness efforts.  If this sounds like you, download this simple quick-start guide to laying the foundation for building a great emergency plan.

The Guide is our in-depth planning resource.  With a glossary of terms, example plan sections, planning process guidance, and much more, it gives congregations at all levels of the planning process what they need to ensure a complete plan.

Customize this document in any way that suits your needs.  The Word format allows any kind of change (add, remove, edit any content) that will make your emergency plan right for your congregation.

Review the slides shared with workshop attendees for helpful examples and key concept reminders.  This is the main slide set; the guest speaker slides are also available below.

This video, part of the Department of Homeland Security’s suite of active shooter preparedness resources, was shown during the workshop.

Brie Loskota, Executive Director of USC’s Center for Religion and Civic Culture, shared thoughts on the importance of congregations’ participation in disaster preparedness, response and recovery, and her own tips for getting ready one step at a time.

Brent Woodworth, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Emergency Preparedness Foundation, discussed the return on investment for community organizations preparing for emergency.  He also gave an overview of the City of Los Angeles Business Operations Center (BOC), housed in the LA City Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and described the role of the faith organizations participating in BOC activities.

The Office of the White House’s DHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships has developed a guide especially for houses of worship, which was used as a framework for the Prep4Faith guide.  Available on the Department of Homeland Security’s website, this is a thorough and detailed reference for all planners.

Part of the Georgia Praise & Preparedness program, this template is another great faith-focused option for congregations getting started on the road to completing their emergency plan.

The State Private Nonprofit Organizations Assistance Program allows certain eligible Private Nonprofits (PNP) or an Intermediary PNP applicant (an umbrella organization) to receive state assistance for extraordinary costs incurred while providing assistance at the request of local agencies during a state disaster event. Cal OES manages these grants, and provides a lot of great information on their site.  Start with the Fact Sheet at the right.