INTRODUCTION
Pathways to Preparedness supports people with disabilities and seniors in taking charge of their own safety by providing practical, accessible strategies for planning ahead of emergencies. This workshop promotes independence, confidence, and self-advocacy by addressing the unique access needs individuals may face during disasters, whether evacuating, communicating with first responders, or sheltering in place.
Facilitated by instructors with lived disability experience, the program guides participants through building personalized Go-Bags, creating individualized emergency action plans, and connecting with local emergency management resources. The goal is to reduce barriers, increase readiness, and strengthen inclusive community resilience across Mercer and Hunterdon Counties so all residents, including those with disabilities and functional needs, are protected before, during, and after an emergency.
Current Offerings
INCLUSIVE HEALTH COMMUNITIES GRANT:
Through support from the Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) Grant, PCIL is expanding emergency preparedness education for people with disabilities and seniors across Mercer and Hunterdon Counties. This grant allows us to broaden our reach, deepen community partnerships, and build sustainable systems that support inclusive emergency planning. PCIL is committed to continuing and growing this work beyond the grant period, ensuring long-term access to disability-centered preparedness resources for all residents.
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Participants learn practical strategies to:
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Build a personalized Go-Bag that includes medical equipment, assistive devices, communication tools, and backup power needs
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Create an individualized emergency action plan that supports their routines, caregiving structures, and functional needs
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Develop communication and self-advocacy tools for interacting with emergency responders and shelter staff
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Identify accessible evacuation options, transportation resources, and shelter considerations
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Prepare for power outages, medication continuity, and assistive technology needs
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Connect with their local Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and CERT teams to understand how to register for alerts and connect to local resources
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Plan effectively for both evacuation and shelter-in-place situations, including how to address barriers related to mobility, communication, or health needs
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This initiative also strengthens community-wide accessibility by partnering with local municipalities to assess shelter readiness, identify gaps, and provide recommendations for inclusive emergency response policies and practices.
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Workshops may be scheduled for individuals, families, service providers, or community groups. Sessions can be held at PCIL’s Mercer or Hunterdon offices or hosted directly at your organization’s location.
Why You
Need This Training
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For seniors and people with disabilities, having an emergency preparedness plan is essential. Here’s why this training matters:
1 / Emergencies Don't Wait
Disasters can strike at any time—power outages, floods, severe storms, or sudden evacuations. For people with disabilities and seniors, extra planning is essential to ensure access to medications, mobility equipment, communication tools, and supports. Pathways to Preparedness builds confidence by helping you learn how to respond quickly and safely in any situation.
2 / Plans That Fit Your Needs
Generic emergency plans rarely consider mobility limitations, sensory sensitivities, medical equipment, or support needs. This workshop helps you create a customized Go-Bag and disaster plan tailored to your lifestyle, abilities, and supports—because true preparedness starts with a plan designed for you.
3 / Connect With Local Resources
Participants learn how to connect with their local Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT). Knowing who to contact—and how to share your access and functional needs—ensures that information and assistance reach you faster during an emergency in Mercer or Hunterdon County.
4 / Build Confidence and Independence
Emergency preparedness is not just about safety—it’s about empowerment. During this 90-minute workshop, participants gain practical skills, a sense of control, and peace of mind. You’ll leave prepared, informed, and equipped to protect yourself and your loved ones.
INQUIRE TODAY
With a deep commitment to inclusion and a team led by individuals with disabilities who bring firsthand lived experience, the Progressive Center for Independent Living (PCIL) is a trusted resource for emergency preparedness education in Mercer and Hunterdon Counties, NJ.
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Our Pathways to Preparedness provides personalized instruction designed to meet the diverse needs of people with disabilities, seniors, their families, and the organizations that support them.
By choosing PCIL, participants receive not only practical tools for safety and independence but also guidance from experts who understand the real-life challenges of navigating emergencies with access and functional needs.
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Empower yourself or your organization with PCIL’s inclusive, community-based approach, where knowledge, accessibility, and preparedness come together to build safer, more resilient communities across New Jersey.