Sometime after the 2020 North Complex Fire, during a Boys & Girls Clubs Paradise Board meeting, an idea became a reality. Rashell Brobst, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs, expressed a wish to compile everything they had learned from the Camp Fire into a playbook for other communities affected by disasters. This idea resonated with Dr. Lindsey Nenadal, who grew up in Paradise, a Paradise Board member and Chico State University professor, who decided to take on the challenge.

After two years of research, interviews, and collaboration with community partners, the result is a comprehensive manual designed to guide those working with children, youth, and families during and after a fire or disaster. The playbook starts with immediate response tactics, outlining steps to staff and equip a team from day one. It includes assigning emergency roles, making critical first calls, creating accessible public information, and collaborating with other organizations.

From there, the playbook expands into recovery efforts and media outreach, offering advice on using social media to communicate with families and organizations. It also highlights resources like crisis hotlines that were crucial during the community’s recovery. Additionally, the playbook includes space for users to make notes or reflections, helping them adapt the strategies to their specific needs.

If you have specific questions about disaster case management and are in need of additional services go to our case management page or please reach out to Erin Kennedy at (530) 899-0335 x2221 or by email at ekennedy@bgcnv.org