010: Day 1: TALK STORY: From Crisis to Community: Service and Integration Post-Maui Fires

How to Disaster

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

Episode Description:

“There's a lot that can be done if you open up the doors and just change the way that you do things.” —Jim Alvey

“We don't do anything globally without partnerships. As a disaster relief organization, we're trying to get the most relief, the most amount of people, the fastest amount of time, for the least amount of money. And you don't do that by yourself.” —Danielle Dreis

When disaster strikes, the path to recovery often requires a collaborative effort between private and nonprofit organizations, working hand-in-hand with the affected community. This powerful synergy can unlock innovative solutions and ensure resources reach those in greatest need. By bridging gaps and leveraging unique strengths, these partnerships become a driving force in restoring hope and resilience in the aftermath.

Facilitated by Vidya Simpath, the Senior Product Manager of Amazon’s Disaster Relief Program, this discussion unpacks the invaluable lessons learned in the wake of the devastating Maui fires, from immediate housing assistance to long-term rebuilding efforts, and more.

Tune in as our panel, VP of Disaster Recovery at Good360 Jim Alvey, and GEM Hawaii Executive Director Danielle Dreis share insights on successful private-nonprofit partnerships, adapting to unique disaster challenges, and the importance of local collaboration and grassroots efforts in long-term recovery.

Connect with After The Fire USA:

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 01:30 What Authentic Partnerships Look Like in Disaster Recovery
• 08:20 Navigating Failures
• 16:09 Digging in Locally
• 20:22 Amazon’s Strategic Response

Meet the Moderator:

👩🏻‍💼Vidya Sampath, Senior Product Manager, Disaster Relief Program, Amazon

Vidya Simpath is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in data analytics and project management, specializing in end-to-end medical supply chain & logistics management, clinical care workflow design, and strategic planning. Known for her ability to identify and communicate complex issues with clarity, Vidya excels at cutting through the noise to facilitate informed decision-making. She has a proven track record of collaborating effectively across cultures, time zones, deadlines, and organizations, ensuring smooth project execution. Vidya's success lies in her ability to seamlessly balance her technical expertise with management and operational responsibilities, leading teams and managing budgets with equal proficiency.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidyasampathglobalhealth/

Meet the Panel

👨🏻‍💼Meet Jim Alvey, VP of Disaster Recovery at Good360

Jim Alvey is the Vice President of Disaster Recovery and Philanthropy at Good360, a nonprofit organization that leads the global distribution of donations through partnerships with socially responsible companies. Jim's work includes cultivating partnerships with foundations and companies to expand the organization's product donor network, increase nonprofit sector collaboration, and connect with different government agencies. He focuses on medium to long-term disaster recovery efforts.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimalvey

Connect with Good360:

• Website: https://good360.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Good360.org
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/good360
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/good360usa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/good360
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCItn_VoR1grL7MqOWFgAArA

👩🏻‍💼 Meet Danielle Dreis, Executive Director, Hawaii, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM)

Danielle Dreis is a seasoned humanitarian professional with over a decade of experience working in developing countries. Since 2011, she has dedicated her career to providing aid and disaster response in challenging environments. Her expertise spans a wide range of areas, including marketing and communication, logistics, budget and contract management, fundraising, and team building. Danielle's passion for making a difference in the lives of others is evident in her tireless efforts to ensure the effective delivery of vital resources and support to those in need.

• Website: https://danielledreis.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielledreis/

Connect with GEM:

• Website: https://www.globalempowermentmission.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theglobalempowermentmission
• X: https://twitter.com/gemmissions
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/globalempowermentmission
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@globalempowermentmission