NoCo Voices

In this episode of NoCo Voices, host Kristin Todd welcomes Lori Hodges, Director of the Larimer County Office of Emergency Management, and Hally Strevey, Executive Director of the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed, for a conversation about disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and resilience in Northern Colorado.

Together, they explore what happens before, during, and long after a wildfire, flood, or other natural disaster. Lori shares how emergency managers help communities prepare for emergencies and coordinate response efforts when disaster strikes. Hally discusses the lasting impacts disasters can have on watersheds and natural systems, and why environmental recovery is deeply connected to community recovery.

The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration among public agencies, nonprofits, community organizations, and residents. It also explores how philanthropy can help fill critical gaps during long-term recovery, supporting both people and places long after emergency response efforts have ended.

Listeners will learn about:
• How communities can prepare before disaster strikes • What happens during the first hours and days of an emergency • The realities of long-term disaster recovery • The connection between watershed health and community resilience • The role philanthropy plays in supporting recovery efforts • How partnerships are helping strengthen wildfire resilience across Northern Colorado
This episode is a reminder that recovery isn't a moment, it's a process. And building resilient communities requires all of us working together.

Resources

Emergency Alerts

 • Sign up for Larimer Emergency Telephone Authority (LETA) emergency alerts:  https://www.leta911.org/ 

• Learn about emergency preparedness resources: https://www.larimer.gov/sites/default/files/uploads/2023/em_prep_guide_final_04.26.2023.pdf 

Organizations Featured in This Episode

 • Larimer County Office of Emergency Management:  https://www.larimer.gov/emergency

• Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed: https://www.poudrewatershed.org/ 

Support Recovery Efforts

 • Learn more about the NoCo Foundation Disaster Recovery Fund:  https://nocofoundation.org/noco-disaster-recovery-fund/ 

• Make a donation to support long-term disaster recovery efforts in Northern Colorado:  https://cfnc.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3013 
Preparedness Resources 

• Build an emergency kit https://www.larimer.gov/sites/default/files/uploads/2017/lcdhe-72-hour-emergency-kit.pdf 

• Create a family communication plan

 • Know your evacuation routes 

• Stay informed through local emergency notification systems

About NoCo Voices

NoCo Voices features conversations with neighbors across Northern Colorado who are building connections, strengthening community, and creating meaningful change. Together, we're exploring the ideas, partnerships, and people shaping our region's future.
https://nocofoundation.org/noco-voices-podcast