FEMA Updates

• National Shelter System Training – Updated on the activation of the system.  Agencies start with the Computer Based Training.  Once completed and have applied for pass word, R-IV staff personnel can conduct additional training if needed.  VOAD Chairs are asked to ensure someone representing the VOAD takes training to ensure that VOADs are up on what is available within its geographic area in the way of sheltering potential.

• National Response Framework (DRAFT) – Agencies were reminded of the deadline for comments on base document and annexes.  (Note since meeting, deadline for comments on base document has been extended to October 22.)  Deadline for commenting on annexes remains at November 10th.  In minutes sent out for this meeting are Ken Skalitzky’s comments.  They are provided so you can use them as a guide, if you so desire.  Of note is the fact that one comment asks for the establishment of Volunteers and Donations to become its own separate annex.  Question was asked, “Is the ESF-6 annex written in March 07 still valid?”  Answer:  Yes.

• Catastrophic Planning Initiatives
  • New Madrid – be aware of the IEM contractor sponsored exercises.  There is a role for voluntary agencies in them.  To become involved, contact state Emergency Management.  Dates are:  Mississippi (November 7-8), Tennessee (Nov 26-28), Alabama (October 25-26) has been postponed.
  • Herbert Hoover Dike – Catastrophic Planning Conference Exercise scheduled for November 5-9.
  • Gulf States Host Evacuation – Is being coordinated out of the “warm cell.”  Stan Copeland R-IV is the lead.  For information, he can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call us or your local Emergency Management Agency.

• ESF-6 Conference – Baltimore (July 23 – 25) -  First annual conference.  Hope to have it become an annual event.  Can forward slides and power points which dealt with Pet Shelters, disability issues, special needs, and voluntary agency emphasis.  FYI, R-IV, IA is planning to host a conference in April, date to be determined.  Voluntary agencies are expected to participate.  Will be passing information to you as it is confirmed.

• IEMC – EMI – Training courses have been set.  If you have not attended EMI courses this is an excellent opportunity.  The courses (two) are a week long.  FEMA will reimburse Voluntary agencies for airfare and lodging but meals must be paid by attendees.  The courses include a number of exercises involving voluntary agencies.  Must go through state EMA to attend, get Regional endorsement.  Course dates are Nov 12-16, Nov 26th-30th, Jan 14th – 18th,  Jan 21st – 25 and March 10th – 14th, and March 17th – 21st.  Must do a separate 75-5 for each of the segments.

• State VOAD Meeting Schedule for 2008 – Please send us your schedules.  Will publish them once we receive your input.  Regional Chair calls will be January 9th, 2008, April 9th, 2008, July 9, 2008, and October 8th, 2008 at 10 am (Eastern).

• Regional Interagency Steering Committee (RISC) – PowerPoint materials were sent to you to keep you informed of presentation made to members of regional/state EM staff regarding the work of the VOAD in response to disasters throughout the region, developments in Voluntary agency sector, etc.

ARC Updates (John Daly)

CWS Updates (Lesli Remaly) (not present)

KAT Updates (Stephen Carr) (not present)

TSA Updates (Jeff Jellets)

State Updates

• AL (Becky Booker) (not present) – Ken reported that Alabama conducted its Be Ready Day.  Good voluntary agency participation.
• GA (Bob Tribble) (not present) – Larry/Jerry reported on VOAD meeting which took place 10/8/07.  Meeting attended for first time by representatives of Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints.  They intend to become more involved in state/regional activities.  Catholic charities reported they have received funds to continue its KAT program.
• FL (Marcus Hepburn) – Reviewed statewide plan with Florida VOAD.  Developed a statewide confidential release form for use in case management.  FIND will be meeting on 13 November and Florida VOAD will meet the day following - both in Orlando..
• KY (Mary Anna Speller) – Held elections in September.  Jim Garret will assume Chair, Sherry Beck, Vice Chair in January.  Currently forming LTRCs in local counties.  Mary Ann will be chair of LTRC formation.  Are considering resurfacing KIDRA.
• MS (Bill Feist)  (not present)– Bill Fiest is conducting workshop on AIDMATRIX in Jackson.  Holding VOAD conference in February.  Working on the formation of sub-state VOADs in lover counties impacted by Katrina/Wilma.
• NC (Charlie Moeller) – Meeting October 23rd.  Working on policies, procedures for training voluntary agencies volunteering in EOC.  In spring will host annual meeting with NC Interfaith.
• SC (Mike Patterson) – Participating in State Citizens Corp training.  Next meeting November 26th at SEMO Columbia.  Have 10 counties covered by 5 or 6 local VOADs.  SC Emergency Management Plan for special needs populations continues to work with South Carolina VOAD.
• TN (John Sims) – Met August 9th.  33 members were present.  Next meeting is November 8th.

NVOAD Updates (Mark Johnston) (not present)

• NSS Training Flyer
• Minutes from 07/11/07 Conference call
• RISC Meeting PowerPoint
• NRF PowerPoint Overview
• NRF Draft Comments