Building Community-Based Resilience

Governments are facing more frequent and complex disasters, requiring preparedness models that distribute decision-making and resources closer to impacted communities. Through case studies spanning wildfire response, small business disaster recovery, transportation infrastructure planning, and emergency communications networks, the report shows how interoperable data, local partnerships, and forward-looking planning improve response and recovery outcomes. It emphasizes empowering local actors, sharing real-time information, and building cross-sector collaboration before crises occur. The findings provide practical actions for leaders to strengthen readiness, maintain essential services, and accelerate recovery from future shocks.