The Houston Resilience Committee convened on September 18, 2025, to discuss critical strategies for enhancing community preparedness and volunteer coordination in the face of potential disasters. The meeting featured Tommy Holstein from Baker Ripley, who provided an update on the Blue Sky Volunteer Planning Group, emphasizing the need for improved volunteer mobilization and disaster response strategies.

Holstein highlighted the lessons learned from previous weather events, stressing the importance of not repeating past mistakes. He noted that the group aims to consolidate various discussions around volunteerism into a cohesive planning unit. This initiative, which began in October 2024, seeks to expand the volunteer base and enhance coordination among local jurisdictions, including the city and county, as well as regional organizations involved in disaster response.

The steering committee for the Blue Sky Volunteer Planning Group includes representatives from various organizations, such as the Texas Gulf Coast regional VOAD and the mayor's office of public safety. Their collective goal is to manage and encourage spontaneous volunteers during disaster situations, ensuring a more effective response to emergencies.

In addition to Holstein's presentation, the meeting included discussions on the importance of collaboration among different stakeholders in the community. Council members and local leaders shared their insights on volunteerism, indicating a strong commitment to fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience in Houston.

As the meeting concluded, the committee underscored the significance of these efforts in building a more resilient community capable of effectively responding to future challenges. The next steps involve further refining the volunteer coordination strategies and engaging more community members in disaster preparedness initiatives.