About Tribal emergency management association
ITEMA: Promoting Collaborative and Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Emergency Management
The Tribal Emergency Management Association (iTEMA) is a non-profit organization that aims to promote a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach to coordinate and enhance emergency management, response, and recovery efforts in Tribal communities. iTEMA recognizes the unique challenges faced by Tribal communities during emergencies and disasters, including limited resources, cultural barriers, and jurisdictional complexities. Therefore, iTEMA works closely with Tribes across the United States to develop effective emergency management strategies that are tailored to their specific needs.
iTEMA was founded in 2005 by a group of Tribal emergency managers who recognized the need for a national organization that could provide support and resources for Tribes during emergencies. Since then, iTEMA has grown into a leading voice in the field of emergency management for Tribes. The organization is governed by an elected Board of Directors who represent different regions across the country.
One of iTEMA's primary goals is to promote collaboration among different agencies involved in emergency management. This includes federal agencies such as FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), state agencies such as State Emergency Management Offices (SEMOs), local governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private sector partners. By bringing together these diverse stakeholders, iTEMA aims to create more effective partnerships that can better serve Tribal communities during emergencies.
Another key focus area for iTEMA is capacity building within Tribal communities. This involves providing training opportunities for emergency managers at all levels - from entry-level staff to senior leadership - as well as developing tools and resources that can help Tribes prepare for emergencies before they occur. Some examples of these resources include hazard mitigation plans, continuity of operations plans (COOPs), evacuation plans, shelter-in-place guidance documents, communication protocols with external partners like hospitals or law enforcement agencies etc.
In addition to capacity building activities within individual Tribes, iTEMA also works to build capacity at the regional and national levels. This includes developing partnerships with other organizations that can provide additional resources and expertise, as well as advocating for policies that support emergency management in Tribal communities.
iTEMA is also committed to promoting cultural competency within emergency management. This involves recognizing the unique cultural values, beliefs, and practices of different Tribes, and incorporating these into emergency planning and response efforts. For example, some Tribes may have specific protocols around communication during emergencies or may require certain types of food or medicine during a disaster. By understanding these cultural nuances, emergency managers can better serve Tribal communities during emergencies.
Overall, iTEMA is a vital organization for promoting effective emergency management in Tribal communities across the United States. Through its focus on collaboration, capacity building, and cultural competency, iTEMA is helping to ensure that all Tribal members are protected during emergencies and disasters.