How is 'community recovery' defined in the protocols?

The definition of 'community recovery' as the process of restoring community functions and services after an emergency emphasizes the holistic approach required to bring a community back to its pre-disaster state. This encompasses not just physical infrastructure but also the social, emotional, and economic aspects of recovery. Restoring essential services such as healthcare, education, and public safety is crucial in helping a community rebound and re-establish normalcy.

Understanding community recovery in this way highlights its broad scope, which includes the involvement of various stakeholders, including local agencies, community organizations, and residents, all working together to facilitate a comprehensive recovery effort. By focusing on the restoration of community functions, this definition captures the essence of resilience and the importance of a united response to post-emergency challenges, ensuring that all aspects of community life are considered and addressed in the recovery process.