Sustaining an Active Local Disaster Preparedness Program: Best Practices of Alliance for Response Pittsburgh

Abstract

This paper outlines the best practices of Alliance for Response Pittsburgh (AFR Pgh), the regional chapter of a national disaster response initiative under the umbrella of the Foundation of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works. The group’s mission is to provide a forum for information, cooperation, and communication among emergency management organizations, first responders, and cultural heritage institutions. Established in 2008, AFR Pgh remains active and has created lasting impact in the greater Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania region while many other AFR chapters have failed to thrive. In hopes of preparing other groups for the inevitable hurdles involved in cooperative disaster planning, AFR Pgh shares its history, challenges, and lessons learned.