resilience /rɪˈzɪlɪəns/
Noun: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness
Resilience is a buzz word permeating discussions in today’s society. But what is all the hype about? What do we really mean when we talk about communities, buildings, places, systems, etc. being resilient? The specific meaning depends on the context of the discussion and may vary based upon the profession. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) defines resilience as the ability to prepare for and adapt to changing conditions and withstand and recover rapidly from disruptions. However, in most cases, when we talk about resilience we are referring to the ability to recover to normal.
To build resilience, communities need to consider all the tools available. This includes identifying potential threats and risks, assessing vulnerabilities, understanding the capacity to respond and recovery, developing strategies for prevention and protection, implementing measures to reduce risk, engaging stakeholders in planning processes, and developing capabilities for preparedness and response. All of these should be done with a focus on building public/private partnerships that support long-term sustainability.
There are plenty of resources available to individuals and communities to cultivate resilience. For example, DHS has compiled a comprehensive list of federal programs that can assist local entities in preparing for emergencies and disasters. You can find these resources at www.DHS.gov/resilience-resources.
Numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are dedicated to strengthening the resilience of communities. These NGOs provide a wealth of resources for those seeking to build resilient communities. They offer research and best practices, technical assistance, funding opportunities, and advocacy tools. NGOs play a crucial role in supplementing government efforts to build and maintain resilience, and they are often better equipped to engage with communities on a grassroots level. Some great examples include AGU’s Thriving Earth Exchange and the Anthropocene Alliance.
Local governments should involve their community members in the process of building a resilient framework, as they are key stakeholders in developing the capacity of the community. Business owners, residents, faith-based organizations, schools, and other local entities can all contribute valuable perspectives and resources to this process. Engaging these stakeholders from the beginning and throughout the process of building resilience can help create buy-in and ensure that solutions for preparedness and recovery are crafted with input from all relevant parties. One example of this strategy is the Baltimore City Community Resiliency Hub Program.
Building resilience is a collaborative effort and ongoing effort. The journey towards resilience involves both government and non-governmental organizations, as well as community members. By leveraging the resources available and working together, we can create stronger, more resilient communities that are better prepared to face whatever challenges come our way.
