What We Do

The number of natural disasters facing the world today has been increasing rapidly over recent years. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, tsunamis and earthquakes can hit a country when they least expect it and can destroy families, communities and livelihoods.

Even though a disaster will have a devastating impact on any country that it hits, it is the world’s poorest countries that are the most vulnerable. In many such countries, a lack of money and resources means existing coping strategies are often seriously restricted when disasters strike.

Further development of practical knowledge and cost effective disaster risk reduction techniques could help people and their communities prepare in a way which would minimise the risks they face.

DAWN believes that by supporting vulnerable communities they can limit the impact of disasters which may be faced in the future by working with people to rebuild their communities in a way which will help secure their own safety.

DAWN understands that in order for communities to get back on their feet as quickly as possible, it is important they are empowered to make their own decisions as to how their community grows.

DAWN recognises that all communities possess skills and resources for coping with natural disasters. However, by enabling people to use a broad range of skills and resources to further expand their coping capacities, the impacts of possible future disasters can be reduced.

Consequently, DAWN aims to support less protected communities to identify potential hazards for the future. To help implement preparations for such eventualities and to develop long term plans to reduce vulnerability. It is an approach that involves all aspects of the community – schools, students, parents and elders.