010 Encore: How to Serve Communities Pre and Post Disaster with Christa López PhD CEM

How to Disaster

SERIES: Role of the Public Sector Leader

“Sometimes we think physically doing something for someone is what's best for them. But sometimes they just want someone to hear their story… Sit back and listen. People want to be heard.” -Christa López

Episode Description:

There are so many layers to unpack in a disaster. Everything happens so quickly, people are anxious, supplies are running low, and people’s lives and livelihoods are at risk. If you are a leader, you may be challenged with making sure you address the needs of each community in your jurisdiction and help them develop resiliency at the same time. This can be a demanding yet exciting task. In this episode, Jennifer interviews one of the strong leaders of today, Dr. Christa López. Dr. López is the Chief of Staff for Community Development and Revitalization for the Texas General Land Office. Listen in as they teach how you can obtain the best knowledge possible during a crisis, find trustworthy investments, get the most of your insurance, and prepare for necessities during the YOYO (You’re On Your Own) period in a disaster. Dr. López also shares valuable insights for long-term recovery in terms of disaster housing, managing donations, and considering the culture of a community. Whether you are a leader or a community member, you can find ways to help- the right way. And sometimes, that help is simply becoming a friend who is ready to sit and listen to the victims.

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Highlights:

02:52: Life Lessons About Real Life Disasters

09:10: The First Step- Investments

15:12: Taking Care of the Needs of Those in Your Jurisdiction

18:26: Considerations Before Making Donations

21:44: Respect for Community Culture

24:21: Sit and Listen

31:05: Where Can You Help

36:18: How to be Resilient

42:00: Always Document

46:15: Disaster Housing and Innovations

52:20: No One Should be Re-traumatized