Integrating the Whole Community

A wheel image defining the Whole Community / National Incident Management System (NIMS) disaster preparation process, including: Identifying & Assessing Risk, Estimating Capability Requirements, Building & Sustaining Capabilities, Planning to Deliver Capabilities, Validating Capabilities, and Reviewing & Updating

Including People with Disabilities & Access/Functional Needs

Los Angeles is committed to understanding and meeting the needs of the "Whole Community" . . . before, during, and after a disaster.

As a disaster service worker (DSW), you will be providing assistance to people in need and may encounter a variety of individuals -- including some with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.

The following resources are meant to provide you with some guidelines, videos, and tips to better interact and communicate with individuals from the Whole Community:

Texas A & M University, Center on Disability and Development
- Mobile Guide: Mobile Tips for First Responders
St. Petersburg College, Center for Public Safety Innovation
- Guide and Videos: iPhone App for Assisting People with Access/Functional Needs & Disabilities
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, Office of Civil Rights
- Checklist: Ensuring Language Access & Effective Communication During Response & Recovery