Empowering Communities Through CERT: Reflections from the 2025 Florida CERT Conference

Editor's Note: The Patterson Foundation's Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency initiative recently hosted the Breakfast of (Disaster) Champions, bringing together leaders from Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), emergency management, and long-term recovery groups. This gathering also created space for networking and shared learning to strengthen our community's resilience locally. Click here to read the CERT Breakfast of (Disaster) Champions Summary Report.

I recently had the pleasure of attending the 2025 Florida CERT Conference in Cape Coral, Florida. This year's theme, "Empowering Communities Through CERT," perfectly captured the spirit of the event.

The opening session set the tone with inspiring remarks from Justin Powell, President of the Florida CERT Association, who reminded us of the impact CERT programs are having in local communities. We also heard from Keith Pruett, Deputy Executive Director of the Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM), who shared the agency's mission of building more resilient communities by bridging gaps between people, organizations, and resources.

Throughout the conference, I attended several breakout sessions, each one a valuable learning opportunity. Two sessions, in particular, highlighted the importance of utilizing CERT volunteers during emergencies and in "blue sky" times. By participating in planned community events such as county fairs, parades, races, air shows, and concerts, CERT teams gain visibility, strengthen relationships, and build trust. These opportunities also foster collaboration with local police and fire departments, further bridging the gap between first responders and the community.

One of the most memorable sessions for me was "Psychology of a Disaster." We all know that stress affects everyone differently. Some may shut down, while others push themselves into overdrive. The key takeaway: it's essential to reset our nervous systems, not only during disasters but also in everyday life. Simple strategies like deep breathing, stretching, eating well, and pendulating (rocking gently from side to side) can make a big difference. My personal favorite technique is the superpower stance, standing tall with hands on hips. It's amazing how quickly it boosts confidence and focus! We also learned about COPES (Connect, Orient, Pendulate, Engage, Slow steps), a practical framework for managing stress and staying grounded.

The overarching message of the conference was clear: empowering individuals and CERT teams with skills, knowledge, and resilience is vital to building stronger, safer communities. I left Cape Coral inspired, better equipped, and more committed than ever to the mission of making our local CERTs better and stronger.