RAC Introduction
Communities responding to disaster, united in a desire to be resilient in the face of COVID-19 and save lives.
The Resilient American Communities (RAC) Network
What does the RAC do?
RAC offers a set of tested tools, methods, content, and guidance that can be used and adapted to respond to the needs of communities that have been affected by COVID-19. The RAC model is designed to be used in collaboration with public health efforts and those of local health centers and health systems. By focusing on local data and local response, the RAC is able to effectively to mitigate issues of mistrust and misinformation through networks of trusted partners, culturally appropriate messages and services, and rapid response to local needs. COVID-19 has put a spotlight on inequities in health care access by racial minorities and those who live in poverty. RAC’S vision extends far beyond immediate community-led responses to disasters to one of community rebirth and renewal that addresses these inequities. The RAC tools and methods are designed to enhance community resilience, strengthening both the key roles of, and the connections between community organizations and their state and national partners. Through stories, measurements and showcased community leadership, the RAC is building towards well-being of all.
Why?
Rates of COVID-19 and related deaths in the U.S. are accelerating rapidly, especially across historically vulnerable and disenfranchised communities. Government and community resources are stretched, hospitals are overwhelmed, and while vaccines are becoming available, distribution will take months and will be slowed by issues of mistrust. The RAC provides tools and methods for communities to respond now, and to build the basis for health for all.
How is the RAC structured?
The RAC is a network of engaged communities and their partners. At the smallest level, a RAC community is composed of one or more community-led organizations which serves as a local hub. Supported by RAC tools and methods, and with the support of trusted partners, the RAC hub provides trusted local information on COVID spread, available local resources, and supports local, culturally appropriate messages and messengers.
RAC hubs may be organized into city, state, or regional networks for mutual sharing and support. All RAC participants are encouraged to participate in scheduled national RAC workgroups and meetings.
How is the RAC supported?
The RAC is based on the voluntary contributions of time and effort of community organizations and their public/private partners. It is part of a larger US effort to build community resilience <https://us.resiliencesystem.org>. RAC data tools are provided without charge. They are accessed online through Medical and Public Health Information Sharing Environment (MPHISE) website. MPHISE was developed in collaboration with DHHS to enable information sharing in response to a wide range of external threats to medical and public health communities. Its scope has been expanded to supporting RAC communities
How can I become part of the RAC Network?
We welcome new members! Please visit our webpage at http://resilientamericancommunities.org/ to learn more and see if there is a RAC community near you.