In 2019, COOPI implemented the project “RIMAC – DRR II: Reinforcing Innovative Mechanisms for Arising Capacities in Disaster Risk Reduction in Rímac (Perú) II”, funded by BHA (USAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance). The project aimed to strengthen disaster preparedness and response capacities among residents, local authorities, and civil society organizations (CSOs). Aligned with the National DRM (Disaster Risk Management) strategy, it emphasized the importance of enhancing community knowledge and abilities to respond to and recover from disasters.

Preparedness activities included contingency planning, stockpiling equipment and supplies, coordinating between stakeholders, mapping evacuation routes, conducting training and drills, and organizing emergency response brigades. COOPI developed a tailored manual to train these brigades, incorporating a community-based risk management approach.

This approach encouraged the active participation of affected communities, municipal actors, and CSOs in DRM processes. The project’s initial phase focused on selecting suitable locations, mapping stakeholders, and identifying beneficiaries. Following this, COOPI finalized the manual, which supported the training of brigades and provided a structured approach to disaster response. The brigades were organized with specific roles assigned to members, such as general coordinator, sub-coordinator, secretary, risk management coordinator, finance coordinator, communications coordinator, and logistics coordinator. Training sessions covered critical topics such as risk management, disaster planning, first aid, damage assessment, needs analysis, preparation of risk maps, development of family emergency plans, fire prevention, and management of temporary shelters.

These efforts enhanced the capacity of local actors and communities, fostering a more organized and efficient disaster response framework while building resilience at the community level.

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