As National Preparedness Month comes to a close, Kentucky State University is reflecting on its role in helping Kentuckians prepare for disasters, recover from emergencies, and strengthen community resilience across the Commonwealth.
Through its Cooperative Extension program, housed in the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources and part of the University’s 1890 land-grant mission, Kentucky State has been on the front lines of preparedness and response. This past April, when severe flooding struck Frankfort and surrounding communities, Cooperative Extension deployed its Disaster Recovery Unit—a mobile trailer outfitted with laptops, internet hotspots, charging stations, and educational exhibits.
Stationed at the Capital Plaza Hotel, where displaced families had been relocated, the unit provided a hub for digital access, disaster guidance, and support. Residents used the lab to connect with loved ones, file FEMA paperwork, and retrieve critical property information. With the support of 4-H Youth Development, more than 20 children engaged in computer-based activities to relieve stress and build resilience. In partnership with the American Red Cross, more than 180 meals were distributed, and in total, 236 individuals were directly served.
“Preparedness is about meeting people where they are—before, during, and after disaster strikes,” said Cameron Sellers, Community Resource Development Disaster Educator. “By offering immediate access to information, internet, and safe activities for children, we help families stabilize and begin planning their recovery.”
The Disaster Recovery Unit also doubled as an educational exhibit, displaying a timeline of Kentucky’s disaster history dating back to the 1937 flood. Handouts developed by Cooperative Extension staff guided residents through safe home re-entry, mold remediation, and water-damaged property disposal.
“Education is one of the most powerful tools we have in disaster preparedness,” said Alan Patterson, State Specialist for Disaster Education. “Our team works to equip communities with knowledge before a disaster strikes so that when an event happens, they can respond more effectively and recover more quickly.”
Emily Smith, State Specialist for Disaster Health and Wellness, underscored the human dimension of Cooperative Extension’s work. “From health and wellness resources to navigating FEMA paperwork, we focus on what families need most in the aftermath of an emergency. Preparedness is about giving people both confidence and resources to protect themselves.”
Kentucky State is also building long-term capacity through the Kentucky Disaster Preparedness Program, which brings together internal and external partners to strengthen readiness statewide. The initiative seeks to support Kentuckians through education, training, and volunteerism; to deploy University assets such as drones, mobile health units, and the Disaster Recovery Unit alongside first responders; to enhance campus emergency response plans; and to create protocols for emergency food production.
“Our vision is to build resilience into everyday life,” said Gill Finley, Jr., Program Leader in Community Resource Development. “Preparedness is not just about responding to disasters; it’s about communities and institutions planning together so we can come back stronger, no matter what challenges we face.”
Dr. Tyrell Kahan, Associate Extension Administrator, noted that preparedness is also tied to the University’s expertise in agriculture and animal health. “Disasters do not just affect homes and infrastructure—they disrupt farming operations, livestock care, and food systems,” Kahan said. “By connecting research with community needs, Cooperative Extension helps farmers safeguard their animals, maintain production, and protect livelihoods. These efforts strengthen not only Kentucky’s agricultural base but also its resilience to the unexpected.”
“Serving all Kentuckians is at the heart of our land-grant mission,” said Dr. Marcus Bernard, dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources and director of the Land Grant Program. “Through Cooperative Extension, Kentucky State is helping families and communities weather the unexpected and prepare for when disaster strikes.”
FEMA’s National Preparedness Month campaign encourages all families to make a plan, build a kit, and stay informed. Kentucky State University urges Kentuckians to take these steps now—before the next storm, flood, or fire.
For tips, resources, and planning guides, visit www.ready.gov/September or Kentucky State University’s Cooperative Extension program at www.kysu.edu/academics/college-ahnr/school-of-anr/co-op/index.php.