13th October marks International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, an opportunity to highlight the importance of preparing for disasters, reducing risks and helping communities become better equipped to face unexpected challenges.
From flooding and storms to wildfires and other emergencies, disasters can have a lasting impact on people, local services, businesses and the places we call home. While we cannot prevent every disaster, we can take steps to improve preparedness, strengthen local networks and support communities to recover.
This is where education, collaboration and community involvement have an important role to play.
Momentum Educate + Innovate is a partner in the RISE – Resilient Communities project, a European initiative focused on helping communities prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters. The project was developed in response to the need for practical guidance, accessible training and affordable solutions that communities can use before, during and after a crisis.
RISE brings together partners from across Europe to share knowledge, learn from real experiences and develop resources that can be adapted to different local needs. Its approach recognises that communities are not simply recipients of support during a crisis. They have valuable local knowledge, skills and networks that can make a real difference to how they prepare and recover. Through its work in adult education, digital learning and community-led innovation, RISE aims to turn knowledge into practical action.
The RISE project is developing resources that bring together examples of disaster preparedness, response and recovery from different settings. These include a Best Practice Guide and a Case Study Compendium, helping educators, community leaders and local organisations explore what has worked, what challenges arose and what lessons can be applied elsewhere.
Every community is different, and an approach that works in one location may need to be adapted for another. However, sharing experiences can help communities identify useful strategies, learn from past mistakes and make better-informed decisions.
The project also recognises the importance of local leadership, trusted relationships and cooperation between organisations. These connections can be particularly important when normal services are disrupted and communities need to organise support quickly.
Find out more about the RISE – Resilient Communities project and explore its resources:
Explore the RISE Digital Toolbox
Read the RISE Best Practice Guide
Explore the RISE Case Study Compendium
RISE – Resilient Communities is a European partnership working to strengthen disaster preparedness, community-led recovery and resilience through education, shared knowledge and practical innovation.
