As climate impacts intensify and wildfire and winter storm seasons grow longer and more unpredictable, disaster preparedness is becoming an essential part of building a resilient, connected community. Nonprofits, community groups, faith-based organizations, and local agencies all play a vital role in helping residents weather a crisis — and none of us can do it alone. That’s why the Community Foundation of Nevada County is leading the creation of a Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) for Western Nevada County.
And we’re officially on our way. On Thursday December 4, we kicked off the COAD with a packed house representing community-based organizations, nonprofits, faith-based groups, and government partners. The energy in the room was palpable — attendees were enthusiastic, engaged, and clearly ready to roll up their sleeves.
A COAD is a consortium of nonprofit, community-based, and faith-based organizations dedicated to serving local residents who are imperiled, impaired, or otherwise impacted by disaster. COADs help reduce duplication of efforts, identify gaps, and ensure that resources are used efficiently and strategically across all phases of preparedness, response, and recovery. After a disaster, they act as a hub for sharing information, connecting needs with resources, and supporting a smoother, more coordinated recovery effort.
While government agencies handle emergency response, COADs focus on the human side of disaster relief: making sure people can access shelter, food, medical support, case management, and other essential services. Many communities — including Eastern Nevada County — already rely on COADs or VOADs (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) to strengthen local readiness and resilience.
At Thursday’s meeting, we took the very first step in co-creating a COAD by beginning to identify our community’s needs and the barriers people face in accessing services during and after a disaster. We also began the process of figuring out where resources and services are located, all of which will inform a matrix that will help the COAD connect needs with resources.
Why a COAD Matters for Our Community
During a crisis, the demand on nonprofits and community organizations skyrockets. Without strong coordination, even the most dedicated groups can become stretched thin or unintentionally duplicate efforts.
A COAD helps by:
• Reducing overlap and confusion. When everyone knows their role, organizations can focus on what they do best, and residents get what they need faster.
• Creating a central place to share information. A COAD provides timely updates, resource inventories, and needs assessments that keep everyone aligned.
• Connecting with local government. The new COAD will work closely with the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services, Public Health, and other agencies so community resources are integrated into official emergency plans.
• Supporting the long haul. Disasters don’t end when the smoke clears. COADs help ensure that people get support during long-term recovery, too.
What’s Next
The planning process continues over the coming months as we co-create the COAD’s structure, priorities, and partnerships. The Community Foundation will help guide the formation of function groups, communication protocols, and shared response frameworks. By March 2026, our goal is to launch a fully formed COAD ready to coordinate nonprofit and community-based resources before, during, and after disasters.
A Stronger, More Connected Future
Thursday’s turnout showed just how much our community cares — and how ready we are to work together. Nonprofit leaders, donors, and community members all have a role to play in shaping a COAD that reflects the strengths, creativity, and compassion of Western Nevada County.