Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD)

How to Become a COAD Member

The Genesee County COAD and the Orleans County COAD are separate alliances with overlapping membership. Each COAD focuses on county-specific needs. Any agency that provides services to support the community in either county is eligible to join the appropriate COAD.

To join, an agency must complete a Contact and Capacity Registration Form.

Additional Opportunities for COAD Members

COAD members may choose to take a more active role during emergencies by supporting Emergency Preparedness Operations (EPOs).

Members interested in this level of involvement typically enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the county. This helps ensure clear roles, coordination, and preparedness.

Learn More About Emergency Preparedness Operations

What is a COAD?

A Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) is a collaborative network of agencies and organizations that support communities during emergencies and disasters. Members contribute based on their mission and capabilities, helping at all stages of response and recovery.

COAD membership may include:

  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Faith-based organizations
  • Businesses
  • Government agencies

Although formed locally, COADs are supported at the state level and connected to broader emergency management efforts.

View NYS Disaster Recovery Resources

Introduction to COAD (PDF)(PDF, 825KB)

Why is a COAD Important?

COAD member agencies work together to strengthen community resilience by coordinating resources, sharing information, and supporting response and recovery efforts.

COAD provides a framework for quickly sharing verified information and responding to community needs. Participating agencies can coordinate support efforts and relay emergency management requests. When activated, COAD may receive information directly from an Emergency Operations Center (EOC).