Government agencies, volunteers, community organizations and insurance companies all play critical roles in disaster relief and recovery, but the work of restoring community stability and rebuilding both physical structures and a sense of place ultimately falls to the people who plan to go on living where the disaster struck. This second edition of From Chaos to Community builds on a growing body of experience in organized recovery efforts led by citizens working together in a disaster's aftermath.

The guide aims to inspire individuals and citizen groups to act in organized, effective ways to help people in communities hit by disasters to reclaim their future. It includes concrete suggestions and clear steps towards recovering, rebuilding and re-establishing a sense of security, safety and vitality in these communities. Through models of successful past recovery efforts and widsom from survivors, From Chaos to Community will help those affected by disaster join together, rebuild, and even pay forward their experience to survivors of future disasters as they tackle their own challenges.

The following documents are in PDF format and can be viewed using Acrobat Reader.

Final Report:

• From Chaos to Community, 2nd Edition

Excerpts from Report:

• Introduction: A short preview to the issues addressed in the guide.
  
• Seven Essential Steps: Seven steps that affected communities must take to re-establish stability.
  
• Helpful Resources: Information about organizations committed to helping disaster survivors connect and rebuild.
  

If you have any questions about From Chaos to Community, please contact Paul Vandeventer, President and CEO of Community Partners, by emailing This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it or calling (213) 346-3209.