'Disaster-Proof Households' Project trains volunteer disaster ambassadors!

The 'Disaster-Proof Households Social Innovation Model Project,' supported by the Ministry of Interior's Directorate General of Civil Society Relations, under the patronage of the Istanbul Governorship, with the scientific consultancy of Üsküdar University and implemented by the Tekirdağ Associations Federation, stands out as an important step in building a conscious and resilient society against disasters. 'Volunteer Disaster Ambassadors' who complete their training are entering the field as individuals who can create awareness in their communities and carry out correct interventions during disasters. 

The aim is a conscious and resilient society!

The Disaster-Proof Households Project aims to contribute to the development of a social model that is not only response-oriented against disasters but also preventive, awareness-raising, and sustainable. Within the scope of the project, it is aimed to transform every household into a conscious “Disaster Awareness Center” by mobilizing women's power in particular.

Volunteer disaster ambassadors are preparing for the field

Within the scope of the project carried out in cooperation with AFAD Istanbul Provincial Directorate and with the support of Ümraniye District Governorship and Ümraniye District National Education Directorate, the trained “Volunteer Disaster Ambassadors” successfully completed their trainer training processes on disaster and emergency preparedness.
Volunteers who complete their training will contribute to an awareness process that will create a multiplier effect in society by transferring the knowledge and skills they have acquired to their communities.

A community-based safety net is being created

Developed based on the fact that disasters create not only physical but also psychological and social impacts, the project goes beyond the classical understanding of disaster management. The model mobilizes women, who are the primary owners of households, aiming to make each one a focal point for awareness and responsibility.

Volunteer disaster ambassadors trained within the scope of the project gain expertise in disasters, prevention of home accidents, and first aid, while also taking on the role of community leaders who inform and guide individuals in their surroundings.

Communication and trainer training topics within the project strengthened the skills for correct intervention and disseminating information during a crisis. Thus, not only individual awareness but also a social learning network with a high multiplier effect was created.

Scientific-based social innovation approach

Shaped under the academic guidance of Üsküdar University, the project stands out as one of the strongest examples of social innovation. The model, contributed by Asst. Prof. Nebiye Yaşar with a social innovation perspective, centers on the principles of sustainability, participation, and local capacity building.

In the trainings provided by Project Coordinator Asst. Prof. Ayhan Özşahin, topics of disaster preparedness and first aid are conveyed to participants with up-to-date information. These trainings, along with practical skills, are aimed to be disseminated throughout society.

In this context, it makes not only institutions but also all stakeholders of society active solution partners in disaster response. The project also offers an effective model of civil society–university–public cooperation in Türkiye, inspiring future disaster management policies.

Volunteer disaster ambassadors, bearers of societal awareness…

Volunteer disaster ambassadors who complete their training are entering the field as individuals who create awareness in their communities and can carry out correct interventions during disasters. Each one stands out as a representative of an approach that acts on knowledge, strengthens solidarity, and creates social awareness.

A sustainable model of social contribution

The “Disaster-Proof Households” project stands out as a concrete and sustainable model of social contribution, beyond being merely a training program.

While individuals prepared for disasters are trained through the project, the culture of trust, solidarity, and awareness in society is also strengthened. Because strong societies survive not only during crises but also when they are prepared for crises.

The “Volunteer Disaster Ambassadors” trained within the scope of the Disaster-Proof Households Social Innovation Model Project will serve as the most important representatives on the ground for a society prepared for disasters.

The project, which stands out with its participatory, holistic, and sustainable structure, presents an exemplary cooperation model in disaster management in Türkiye, laying out an important vision for the future.