Narrative-first, evidence-driven

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Use when: people get hit now (raids, layoffs, eviction, disaster).
Goal: calm coordination that keeps people safe and stable.

First rule

Do no harm. Safety and legality come first.

The rapid response checklist

1. Identify the need (food, housing, childcare, transport, legal help)
2. Identify the coordinator (one point of contact)
3. Confirm what’s verified vs rumor
4. Match resources (who can provide what, by when)
5. Communicate calmly (clear asks, clear updates)
6. Close the loop (confirm delivery, note gaps)

Common roles

• Coordinator
• Resource matcher
• Driver / logistics
• Translator / community liaison
• Funds manager (simple tracking)

Watchouts

• Rumors spread fast in crises
• Helpers burn out without a system
• “Hero mode” breaks teams

What success looks like

Needs met quickly, quietly, and safely. And people still have energy next week.

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