Palm Coast, Fla. — As the calendar edges deeper into hurricane season Flagler County officials continue to stress that preparedness and strong community networks are essential for resilience. While Erin poses no immediate threat to the area, this storm forecast has emergency leaders urging residents not to wait—preparedness begins before the skies darken.
Capping off a morning filled with education, collaboration, and action, Suzy Gamblain, Executive Director of event organizer Flagler Volunteer Services, received a surprise honor during Tuesday’s Disaster Preparedness Breakfast and Expo. As Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo concluded her remarks, she presented Gamblain with the Excellence in Volunteerism Award, recognizing her decades-long commitment to building a robust local volunteer network and overseeing array of programs that includes disaster response and community recovery. The room shared her enthusiasm as Gamblain, visibly moved, accepted the award before a crowd of more than 150 exhibitors and attendees.
“What an honor it was to receive such a prestigious award and to receive it from Volunteer Florida on Josie’s 3rd anniversary as CEO was super special,” said Gamblain. “None of the work I do would be possible though without the team that supports me including my staff and volunteers. It was a really special day.”
Preparedness Starts at Home
Held at the Palm Coast Community Center, the event brought together residents, first responders, nonprofits, and government agencies to promote proactive planning. Attendees received emergency preparedness kits and critical information on how to build a disaster supply kit capable of sustaining a household for up to seven days without power or water.
With the peak of hurricane season approaching in September, residents were urged to review their evacuation plans and assess their home’s ability to withstand severe weather. Starter items like gloves, blankets, flashlights, and Narcan were distributed as part of the joint effort to equip local households with the basics for storm survival.
Evacuation, Shelter, and Clear Communication
Flagler County maintains clearly defined evacuation zones—primarily along the coastline and near inland lakes—and will issue orders based on storm projections according to Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord. Officials emphasized that residents should register for AlertFlagler, the county’s emergency notification system, to receive real-time updates and evacuation notices.
A pet-friendly public shelter and special needs shelter will be opened as needed and are supported by trained volunteers and medical staff noted members of the shelter panel with Amy Carotenuto representing Flagler Humane Society, Stephen Civitelli speaking on behalf of the Flagler Health Department, and David Bossardet for Flagler Schools.
Residents needing transportation to shelters can pre-schedule assistance through Flagler County to ensure access when the time comes. Items like personal identification, prescriptions, food, and pet supplies should accompany evacuees.
Residents with special medical needs are encouraged to sign up for the Florida Special Needs Registry before the storm hits to help officials better assess the needs of the community.
Volunteerism: The Heart of Disaster Response
Tuesday’s event placed a strong emphasis on the role of volunteers in disaster response. Speakers from organizations like Flagler Strong featuring Tracy Callahan-Hennessey, Western Flagler County’s CERT team with Geri Scott, and Parkview Church lead pastor Greg Peters shared information on how volunteers are mobilized before, during, and after storms. From clearing debris to delivering supplies, their work is central to the county’s resilience, and their documented volunteer hours help Flagler County and the municipalities when requesting FEMA reimbursement.
Flagler Volunteer Services continues to expand its disaster response training programs, with monthly courses in CPR, first aid, and search-and-rescue basics available to the public. These training opportunities are designed to empower residents with the confidence and skills to assist their neighbors in times of crisis.
Faith-based groups also maintain a large presence in Flagler County’s disaster response, often organizing neighborhood canvassing efforts and supporting long-term recovery needs such as housing and mental health care.
A Stronger Safety Net
Post-disaster recovery services are coordinated locally through Flagler Volunteer Services and supported by Flagler Cares. Whether seeking temporary shelter, counseling, or medical care, residents can call 386-319-9483 or visit flaglercares.org to be linked to the appropriate support network.
National organizations like Crisis Cleanup also partner with local volunteer groups to provide free clean-up assistance after storms. Residents are encouraged to call the hotline to request help once a storm has passed.
Building a Culture of Readiness
Tuesday’s expo was more than a one-time event—it was a testament to Flagler County’s commitment to cultivating a culture of preparedness and community connection. It’s not just about stocking up on supplies—residents are being encouraged to know their neighbors, get trained, and join the countywide effort to build resilience from the ground up.
