FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact slandau@voicescenter.org or 203-966-3911
VOICES Center for Resilience Hosts Workshop to Prepare Individuals and Families for an Emergency

New Canaan, CT – March 18 – Are you prepared for an emergency? Voices Center for Resilience (VOICES) invites New Canaan residents to join us for Community Preparedness Training: Preparing Individuals and Families for an Emergency. The workshop will be held on Tuesday, March 18th at the New Canaan Library from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Doors open at 6:00PM with coffee and light refreshments. The program is free, registration is encouraged.
The workshop includes a presentation to help individuals and families with strategies to be better prepared in their homes, work and community, followed by a panel discussion to highlight organizations that serve New Canaan residents. “I’ve learned firsthand, both personally and professionally that having a preparedness plan for yourself and your family is critical,” stated Mary Fetchet, VOICES Founding Director. “It is an honor to promote the important work of New Canaan Emergency Management, and the efforts of organizations that serve our community.”

Mary Fetchet will be joined by Russ Kimes, New Canaan Director of Emergency Management and Dionna Carlson, New Canaan First Selectman for opening remarks. Stephanie Landau, VOICES Director of Community Programs, will conduct an informative workshop covering the fundamental steps individuals can take to prepare in advance of an emergency, whether sheltering in place or evacuating.

Panelists include: Albert Bassett, New Canaan Fire Chief; John DiFederico, New Canaan Chief of Police; Nick Jossem, CRI Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Region 1 CT; Susan Morse, 2nd Lieutenant EMS; Jim Davis, CERT Co-Executive Director.

The first 25 registrants will receive a Preparedness Backpack to help them take the first steps toward emergency readiness. The event is generously sponsored by the New Canaan Community Foundation, and the Preparedness Backpacks are provided through a grant from 9/11 Day and AmeriCorps.
Register now! Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your preparedness by learning from experts. For information and registration, visit voicescenter.org or call 203-966-3911.

About VOICES: VOICES provides long-term support services that promote mental health and wellness for thousands of victims’ families, responders, and survivors, while collaborating with our partners to help communities prepare for and respond to tragedy. The organization provides support services, including a Parent Helping Parents Support Group in New Canaan for those who have lost a child. Education initiatives include monthly webinars and community-based workshops. VOICES Preparedness Trainings provide a framework to help community stakeholders incorporate a victim-centered approach to respond to traumatic events.