Day 2-8: Navigating the Maze: Local Perspectives on Disaster Policy and Governance | Cathy Capriola (Moderator), Kevin Goss (Panelist), David Guhin (Panelist), & Dave Reid (Panelist)

Effective disaster policy and governance structures are instrumental in coordinating response efforts, mitigating future risks, and providing relief to affected communities. By implementing comprehensive disaster management strategies and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, policymakers and governing bodies can proactively address the multifaceted issues posed by disasters. Moreover, by continuously evaluating and adapting policies, these structures…

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Day 2-7: Forging the Path to Insurability: Brainstorming Solutions for Wildfire Challenges | Valerie Brown (Moderator), Louis Reynaud (Panelist), David Shew (Panelist), & Alister Watt (Panelist)

Insurability is a critical factor to consider when addressing the growing challenges posed by wildfires. As we strive to protect our communities and safeguard our assets, it is necessary to develop new strategies that enhance our ability to manage, mitigate, and recover from these devastating events financially.  This discussion is conducted by Valerie Brown, the…

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Day 2-6: Fannie Mae and Post-Disaster Development of Affordable Housing: Case Study | Sidra Goldwater & Seana O’Shaughnessy

Post-disaster development of affordable housing is a crucial aspect of rebuilding communities and ensuring their long-term resilience. This involves collaborating with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private stakeholders to develop innovative and sustainable solutions.  Get in on the conversation as Sidra Goldwater, a Disaster Recovery & Rebuilding Advisor for Fannie Mae, and Seana O’Shaughnessy, the…

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Day 2-5: Beyond the Norm: Fannie Mae’s Alignment with Frontline Communities in Driving Resiliency | Sidra Goldwater

Fannie Mae is a government-sponsored enterprise that works to facilitate affordable housing in the United States. It purchases mortgages from lenders, bundles them into mortgage-backed securities, and sells them to investors. This replenishes lenders’ cash so they can originate new mortgages and helps create homeownership and rental opportunities for millions of Americans. Fannie Mae aims…

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Day 2-4: Q&A Session | Julie Shiyou-Woodard & Alister Watt

With each new wildfire season, the urgency to protect lives and property grows. This entails integrating fire-resistant materials, applying proper vegetation management strategies, and following stringent building codes and regulations. But how can we implement these in our communities? Tune in as Smart Home America Founder Julie Shiyou-Woodard and IBHS Chief Production Officer Alister Watt…

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Day 2-3: Wildfire Prepared Home: Living with Fire | Alister Watt

Wildfires have become increasingly rampant in recent years, posing a significant threat to our communities and natural environments. As a result, adapting to living with wildfires has become more important than ever. One impactful measure in this regard is the construction of Wildfire Prepared Homes.   The Insurance Institute for Home and Business Safety (IBHS) is…

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Day 2-2: Powering the Present: Climate-Resilient Housing Solutions for Today and Tomorrow | Julie Shiyou-Woodard

As the frequency and intensity of climate-related events continue to rise, it has become exceedingly crucial to adapt our housing infrastructure to withstand these challenges. Hence, shifting toward climate-resilient housing is an imperative step in our pursuit of sustainable and resilient communities. This transformation not only ensures the safety and well-being of homeowners but also…

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Day 2-1: Navigating the New Normal— Land, Housing, Insurance, and Public Policy in the Age of Climate Change | Jennifer Gray Thompson

    The impact of climate change extends far beyond rising temperatures and extreme weather events. It affects communities and individuals, altering their daily lives and threatening their sense of security. Therefore, it is crucial to develop policies that promote resilient infrastructure, affordable housing, and accessible insurance options. By acknowledging the emotional and financial toll…

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Day 1-8: Casting a Safety Net— Navigating Individual Assistance in the Wake of Disasters | Anne Whatley (Moderator), Claire Balsley (Panelist), Melissa Bauer (Panelist), & Kate Bulger (Panelist)

    When disasters strike, the aftermath is often overwhelming. Countless individuals find themselves in dire need of assistance to get back on their feet. However, the process of seeking aid from different organizations can be incredibly bureaucratic and intimidating for many. No one should feel lost or helpless in the face of disaster. That’s…

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