The 2009 National Conference on Community Preparedness: The Power of Citizen Corps, is being hosted jointly by FEMA's Community Preparedness Division and the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) on August 9-12, 2009, at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City Hotel in Arlington, VA. The conference is open to all who are interested in making their communities safer, stronger, and better prepared for all types of hazards. It will bring together approximately 600 state and local elected officials, emergency management, fire and police services, public health and emergency medical services, non-governmental organizations, private business and industry, advocacy groups, and members of public.

The conference planning team is currently soliciting proposals for presenters. We encourage Citizen Corps members, partners, and others who are interested in sharing their experiences with increasing community preparedness to visit the conference website and submit their proposals. Call for Presenters submissions are due by March 2. More information on the conference and the Call for Presenters submission form can be found on the conference website: http://www.iaem.com/NCCP2009.htm.

Blood is traditionally in short supply during the winter months due to the holidays, travel schedules, inclement weather and illness. A reduction in turnout can put our nation's blood inventory at a critical low. The American Association of Blood Banks in conjunction with America's Blood Centers and Citizen Corps Affiliate, the American Red Cross, is celebrating National Blood Donor Month to encourage donors to give or pledge to give blood. Citizen Corps Councils should consider coordinating with area hospitals, health and fitness centers, places of worship, community centers, the American Red Cross and their nearest Blood Center to host a local blood drive in order to assist in maintaining blood supplies for emergencies of all types. To learn more, please visit http://www.aabb.org.

On February 17, 2009 all full-power broadcast television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting on analog airwaves and begin broadcasting only in digital. Millions of American residents depend on television as a reliable source of information, to include emergency alerts and warnings. Citizen Corps Councils are urged to inform members of your community -- especially older adults and homebound individuals -- of the digital transition to ensure they take any necessary action to receive and view over the air digital signals.

The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) is a coalition of 49 nonprofit organizations that respond to disasters as part of their overall mission. Cash donations to support these organizations' efforts are appreciated in lieu of material donations, such as clothing, food, or supplies. Please click on the appropriate National VOAD member's website to learn how you can donate directly to the organization of your choice. Volunteers will be needed in the months ahead to support relief and recovery efforts. You can connect to a local National VOAD organization or call 1800-VOLUNTEER to learn about volunteer opportunities in your local area.