NADD Task Force on Trauma & Disasters Nancy J. Smyth, PhD, LCSW University at Buffalo State University of New York Co-Chair with Eddie Lawlor, Washington University Presented at CSWE Annual Program Meeting October 2007 San Francisco, CA

Disasters FEMA’s Definition (1995) –natural catastrophe OR regardless of cause, any fire, flood, or explosion that causes damage –of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant assistance supplementing State, local, and disaster relief organization efforts to alleviate damage, loss, hardship, or suffering there were 285 disasters in the US, approximately 1 every 2 weeks.

Social Work Role Disaster Mitigation & Planning –Community assessment, planning, organizing to address needs, especially those of vulnerable populations –Organizational assessment & planning to address needs for services under disaster circumstances Disaster Response –Core community services –Mental health & family support

Social Work Schools/Departments Curriculum –Specialized Courses –Infusion –Field Assignments Continuing Education Certificate Programs Mitigation & Planning for SW Programs SW Schools as Responders & Community Partners SW Research

NADD Task Force Trauma & Disaster Resources on the Web Syllabi Project Teleconference/Webcast with International Partners doing Disaster Management Education Programs Policies/Procedures for SW Programs Disaster Mitigation/Planning