Solano disaster relief groups get a fresh ‘look’
The Solano Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD), a local group of community organizations that has played a critical role following disasters, has launched a new visual identity, website, and Facebook page.
The Solano COAD reactivated and refocused when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, followed by the LNU Lighting Complex Fires. The need for an enhanced visual identity and website soon became necessary.
“Good communication is key during disaster response,” said Vincent Valenzuela, Solano County COAD co-chair and Red Cross Disaster Program manager in Solano and Marin counties. “Having our communication tools updated will allow easier access to receive and share critical information with the community.”
Rhonda Smith, CVNL Solano Volunteers program coordinator echoed this: “As fire season quickly approaches, we want the community to be aware that there is a COAD. Creating a new logo will help solidify the COAD’s brand, or purpose, in the community, thereby boosting awareness and engagement.”
In addition to a new logo, a new website and social media page were created to better engage the community. “We wanted to come out swinging to really make the statement that Solano County COAD has been resurrected,” said Major Randy Hartt, Solano County COAD cochair and Solano County coordinator for the Salvation Army.
Here, local organizations and individuals can learn more about the COAD, join for free, or become disaster volunteers.
Organizations can complete an online form to join the COAD by visiting https://solanocoad.org/. The Solano COAD Facebook page can be viewed here: https://www.facebook.com/SolanoCOAD/.
Individuals can sign up as “Disaster Response Team” members on the website, https://solanocoad.org/, as well. Disaster Response Volunteers are trained before disasters strike to better handle the responsibilities placed upon them. All volunteers receive training to enable active involvement in an Emergency Volunteer Center and Disaster Call Center. Based on interest, volunteers may then take additional training for Supervisory and Leadership roles.
“Solano Volunteers has brought great ideas and some very key organizational components to the Solano County COAD,” said Hartt. “I have truly been amazed by CVNL’s staff. They provided an excellent framework for the Solano COAD that has improved awareness of our presence in Solano County.”