Boone County and Heart of Missouri United Way Launch the Boone County Community Organizations Active in Disaster to Strengthen Local Disaster Response

COLUMBIA, Mo. (September 14, 2026) - The Boone County Office of Emergency Management and Heart of Missouri United Way are partnering to strengthen disaster preparedness, response, and recovery through the launch of the Boone County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD).

The Boone County COAD brings together nonprofits, faith-based organizations, community and grassroots groups, businesses, and other community partners that serve residents throughout Boone County. Members can expect to participate in quarterly meetings, build meaningful partnerships, exchange information and resources, share expertise and best practices, and strengthen their organization’s preparedness and response capabilities.

“Disasters impact every community differently, and no single organization can meet every need alone,” said Chris Kelley, Director, Boone County Office of Emergency Management. “The COAD gives organizations an opportunity to work together, share resources and information, identify gaps, and build on the trusted relationships that already exist throughout Boone County.”

The first full membership meeting will take place on October 2, 2026, from 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. in the Les Wagner Community Room at Boone County Family Resources, 2700 W. Ash Street, Columbia. Prospective organizations can register at http://bcoem.info/4idNprY. All organizations interested in getting involved are encouraged to register by September 28.

“Organizations across Boone County already do tremendous work every day to support our neighbors,” said Talia Jackson, President & CEO of Heart of Missouri United Way. “The COAD is about connecting those resources so that, when a disaster occurs, we are better prepared to work together and respond to the needs of our community.”

For more information about the Boone County Office of Emergency Management, please visit www.boonemo.gov.

For more information about the Heart of Missouri United Way, please visit www.uwheartmo.org.

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