Best practices and lessons learned from community engagement and data collection strategies in post-hurricane Maria Puerto Rico
The aim of this study is to assess whether different outreach approaches used during this period of research illuminated different perceptions about disaster preparedness and recovery and to identify what works and what does not work when engaging communities in emergency preparedness and recovery activities. Communities have a vital role to play in managing the risks associated with natural disasters. As such, their strengths, weaknesses, and priority concerns must be factored into policy decisions to ensure local recovery efforts reflect community needs.
The evidence from the study shows that different community engagement formats shed light on distinct aspects of recovery concerns, needs, hopes and aspirations. Focus groups can foster lively discussions that produce a significant number of data points in a relatively short period of time. The group dynamic might also fortify community bonds and encourage civic-minded solutions to address future disasters. Community walk-throughs offer opportunities to elevate the voices of the most vulnerable populations to ensure that future response and recovery efforts factor in their unique needs.
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