Disaster PrepWise AmeriCorps Member

Disaster PrepWise AmeriCorps Program is looking for members to help older adults prepare for disasters.

The Disaster PrepWise program (DPW) provides step-by-step guidance to create a sharable disaster management plan for individuals who may be vulnerable in disaster situations. Our program works with older adults, caregivers of older adults, and those who may need extra support during and after disasters. We also have recently translated our program into Spanish.  

Member Duties: AmeriCorps members will serve with University of Iowa College of Public Health and local organizations to increase disaster preparedness among older adults in Iowa.

1. Deliver Disaster PrepWise (DPW) intervention to specific vulnerable populations. Identify locations to reach target population (senior housing, meal sites, churches, community centers, etc.) and conduct outreach in those locations. Recruit individuals for intervention delivery. Meet with individuals to guide them through using the DPW online tool and assist with creating a personalized emergency plan. Follow up with participants to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. Train county public health employees in intervention delivery to ensure long-term sustainability.
2. Collaborate with local agencies ranging from public health departments to Emergency Management Agencies to develop disaster preparedness resources for their community. Research county's Hazard Vulnerability Assessment to identify disasters most likely to affect target population. Identify existing resources within the county. Plan and implement emergency preparedness events within the county/community. Revise and/or develop county emergency preparedness/response plans. Build disaster preparedness-based partnerships between county public health, area aging services, and other community organizations serving vulnerable populations.
3. Member may participate in additional service activities that will help them grown professionally and align with approved grant activities. 

Position Requirements: Valid driver's license or ability to transport self from home to service site and community events. 

Qualifications: Must be 18 years of age or older by start date. Must have a high school diploma or equivalent or be in process of completion. Must be either a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Must pass mandatory pre-service background checks.

Program Benefits:  

The Disaster PrepWise AmeriCorps Program is offering several options for hours ranging from 1/4 time to 3/4 time (approximately 10-30 hours per week).  This allows students to decide what works best for their schedule. 

Each member will have access to trainings related to disaster response as well as several professional development opportunities, including certifications.

A living allowance will be provided to help meet the necessary living expenses incurred while serving in the AmeriCorps program. The living allowance will be divided evenly across the term of service and provided every month via direct deposit. Upon successful completion of the term of service, the member will receive a Segal Education Award from the National Service Trust. Student loan deferment, forbearance or forgiveness opportunities are available depending on the type of student loan. It is the member’s responsibility to obtain information about whether their loan(s) qualify for this benefit. This is not an automatic benefit of the program.  Training and professional development related to the knowledge and skills required for service, as well as training specific to the community the member serves. The member will receive a mid-term and end of term evaluation. 

Program Start and End Date: September 1, 2024. Hours of service will depend on which time slot students choose ranging from 1/4 time to 3/4 time.

Locations: Multiple locations are available in Eastern Iowa including here at the College of Public Health.

To Apply: Email Maria Donohoe at Maria Donohoe at maria-donohoe@uiowa.edu