2026 NYC Faith Sector Community Preparedness Summit

In collaboration with the NYDIS Faith Sector Community Preparedness Program and NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene - Office of Emergency Preparedness and Response, NYDIS hosts annual training summits for NYC religious leaders. The summits, which feature presentations and interactive discussions, will increase knowledge on disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, and crisis leadership, while connecting NYC clergy to preparedness tools, resources, and community partnerships.

The goal of this Fall 2026 summit, delivered in partnership with United Way of New York City, is simple: Know your neighbors before you need your neighbors.

As extreme weather becomes more frequent and disruptive, communities cannot rely on emergency services alone. Marcus Coleman of United Way Worldwide will start the day by exploring why strong local relationships matter in a crisis. Attendees will learn practical ways houses of worship, community organizations, and neighbors can work together to share information, identify needs, and respond when disaster strikes.

What to expect: 

• Meet and share a meal with faith, nonprofit, and community partners from across NYC and take part in an interactive day of learning and relationship-building.
• Choose from breakout sessions and leave with new connections and practical ideas.
• Take home a flood preparedness kit.

Keynote:

Marcus T. Coleman Jr. is Vice President of Community Resilience Strategy at United Way Worldwide, where he leads efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and long-term community resilience. Previously, he spent ten years with FEMA, most recently serving as Director of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. There, he led partnerships with faith and community organizations nationwide and supported more than 50 disaster activations and special missions.

In partnership with:

With funding support from:

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