On August 14th, Rebuilding Together Greater Florida hosted a successful Community Disaster Training in Sarasota, where neighbors came together to strengthen their preparedness for hurricane season. Residents not only learned more about our programs but also had the opportunity to build their own hurricane preparedness kits a critical step in ensuring families stay safe during emergencies.

We were honored to welcome Commissioner Mark Smith (District 2, Sarasota County Government), whose presence underscored the importance of community-wide collaboration in disaster readiness. His support, along with the active participation of local residents, highlighted how resilience begins at the neighborhood level.

This event would not have been possible without the generous sponsorship of Verizon and the partnership of United Way Suncoast and All Faiths Food Bank. Together, we created a hands-on, engaging training that gave residents both practical tools and peace of mind as they prepare for the unexpected.

By bringing organizations, local leaders, and community members together, we’re not only preparing for disasters—we’re building a stronger, more connected Sarasota.