As RISE approaches its first year, we are reflecting on the progress made so far and the work still ahead.
RISE was created to help communities across Europe become better prepared for crises, more confident in their response, and stronger in their recovery. From floods and storms to wildfires, earthquakes, environmental disasters and conflict-related disruption, communities are facing increasingly complex challenges.
At the heart of RISE is a clear message: resilience can be learned, shared and strengthened. The project supports disaster preparedness through adult education, digital learning and community-led innovation, helping educators, community leaders and grassroots organisations gain the tools to anticipate, prepare for and respond to crises.
Over the past year, the partnership has focused on turning knowledge and lived experience into practical support. This includes the development of key resources such as the Best Practice Guide, Case Study Compendium and Digital Toolbox, which help communities explore real examples, useful tools and practical approaches to preparedness and recovery.
RISE is rooted in the belief that communities should not only be seen as recipients of help, but as active leaders in their own recovery. Local knowledge, trusted relationships and community leadership are essential when responding to disruption and rebuilding for the future.
The consortium has also travelled together for two Transnational Partner Meetings: first to Potenza, Italy, and later to Valencia, Spain. The Valencia meeting was especially meaningful, taking place in the wider region affected by the DANA floods of 29 October 2024, which severely impacted 35 of Consorci de la Ribera’s 47 municipalities. This experience brought the purpose of RISE into sharp focus, reminding partners that disaster resilience is a lived reality for many communities.
As RISE moves into its second year, the partnership looks forward to building on these foundations. There are many activities planned to continue supporting the project’s ethos: practical learning, community engagement, digital tools, shared European experience and people-centred approaches to disaster preparedness and recovery.
One year in, RISE has already taken important steps towards strengthening community resilience across Europe. As we look ahead, our message remains clear:
Resilient communities are built through learning, cooperation and collective action.
