Program focuses on building resilience

The Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments (CWCOG) invites the business sector, chambers of commerce, economic development councils, local governments, school districts and other academic institutions, transit agencies, tribal governments, non-profits, conservation districts, and emergency managers to attend a developmental program on May 23, 3-6 p.m. at the Cowlitz County Event Center located at 1900 7th Avenue, Longview.

Economic Resilience is the means by which a local economy can withstand interruption due to economic adversity at any level, whether it be national, state, or local. This introductory event is free and will host expert speakers in the field of community resilience, resources, and strategy from the Washington Emergency Management Division and the Community Service Center from the University of Oregon.

Open to the public, participants will explore the concepts of economic resilience and crucial links among agencies, organizations, and businesses throughout the region. There will be opportunities for businesses and government agencies to share information and engage with others. Information gathered will lay the foundation and set the direction for future trainings. Participants will build a better understanding of key issues, access tools, and work to prepare our region to anticipate economic risks.

The event will be an informative and interactive opportunity for all to learn, share information, identify gaps, and strategize solutions to strengthen the region.

For more information, contact Ranya Aboras at raboras@cwcog.org or 360-577-3041. People who need special accommodations to participate in this process should call 360-577-3041. Ask for the ADA Coordinator. For TDD users, use the state's toll-free relay service, (800) 833-6388, and ask the operator to dial 360-956-7575.