Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency
The Purpose
Our communities have long been vulnerable to natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and, more recently, increasingly higher temperatures and the pandemic. Disasters of all types have the potential to significantly alter our quality of life. Understanding the realities and dangers disasters pose can create opportunities to thrive beyond their effects. People, organizations, and communities are diligently examining this complex topic locally and worldwide, yielding compelling models, data, and learnings that can inform the Suncoast’s response to its challenges.
Strengthening the Impact
You’re Invited to the 2026 CERT Summit!
Join The Patterson Foundation’s Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency initiative for the inaugural 2026 CERT Summit: Rising Resilience, Ready Together
Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Ora Event Center, 578 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232
Click Here for Directions to the Ora Event Center.
The CERT Summit includes a keynote, plenary sessions, breakout sessions, panels and innovative learning opportunities and collaboration.
As we work to strengthen the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) ecosystem across our four county region (Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties) the day will feature plenary and breakout sessions providing training, insights, and networking for those active in CERT, exploring involvement, or committed to building resilience in their neighborhood, workplace, or team.
We’re excited to learn from one another, exchange best practices, and build stronger connections across the region. An exhibit and vendor hall will offer additional opportunities to connect with organizations and programs supporting disaster preparedness and resiliency.
Sponsored by The Patterson Foundation and the Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency Initiative.
Admission to the Summit is free through funding from The Patterson Foundation, however registration is required. Please share this registration with others who may be interested.
Click Here to Register for the CERT Summit.
Click Here to visit The Patterson Foundation Website.
