Ramsey County Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security
(RCEMHS) has a knowledge gap in vital information about preparing for, responding to, and
recovering from disasters in vulnerable communities. This study focused on three key vulnerable
communities within Ramsey County: older adults (60 years or older), children under five, and
the Karen population. Qualitative analysis of interviews was conducted with individuals,
organizations, and government departments within Ramsey County. Due to the trans-boundary
and trans-jurisdictional nature of natural and human-caused disasters, coordination within
agencies and with nonprofit and private organizations is necessary. The study found that many
vulnerable populations interact with public benefit programs, providing insight into disaster
resilience. These touch-points can be trust and resilience-building exchanges. The communities
have a lack of knowledge of RCEMHS and emergency management, and which may reinforce
complacency towards emergency preparedness. To counter a lack of knowledge and engagement
in emergency preparedness by communities, we recommend RCEMHS adopt a human centered
approach in preparation and planning activities, where communities hold valuable expertise
about their assets and vulnerabilities in regard to disasters. This study developed five
recommendations for more effective outreach and engagement in emergency management. Each
of the recommendations can use human centered design strategies and are aligned within a
community resilience framework.
Read the final student report delivered to the local gov/community partner.
Resilient Communities Project Contact Info
University Faculty Contact
Dan Milz
Visiting Assistant Professor
dmilz@umn.edu
Local Government / Community Contact
Karma Kumlin-Diers
Emergency Management and Homeland Security
Emergency Management Coordinator
karma.kumlin-diers@co.ramsey.mn.us
(651) 266-1013