Alberta resilient communities project - The role of community influencers post-disaster

On June 20, 2013, the Southern Alberta floods resulted in the largest natural disaster in the province and among the worst in Canada, affecting thousands of individuals, homes and structures. Community organizations, social... [ view full abstract ]

On June 20, 2013, the Southern Alberta floods resulted in the largest natural disaster in the province and among the worst in Canada, affecting thousands of individuals, homes and structures. Community organizations, social service agencies, and local governments continue to rebuild affected communities. This paper presents preliminary research results from interviews conducted with community influencers who are individuals working in organizations, systems, and groups that support children and youth post-flood. There is a great deal to learn from the experiences of service providers, practitioners, community leaders, organizers, and individuals working to deliver services and programs for children and youth in post-disaster contexts. Research findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of resilience from the perspectives of community influencers, and identify areas that would benefit from collaborative action and strategic engagement. The transition of services from temporary external agencies to existing permanent services will be discussed, as well as innovations and promising practices in disaster recovery. This study is part of the larger “Alberta Resilient Communities Project” conducted as a collaborative research program with Dr. Julie Drolet (University of Calgary), Dr. Robin Cox (Royal Roads University), and Dr. Caroline McDonald-Harker (Mount Royal University), and funded by Alberta Innovates - Health Solutions CRIO Grant.