Mass Violence Preparedness, Response, Recovery and Resilience Resources
Developed in partnership with the National Mass Violence Center (NMVC)
This page contains links to evidence-based resources to assist mayors and city leaders in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from mass violence incidents, and fostering long-term resilience in their communities. Resources are drawn from national best practices and lessons learned from previous mass violence incidents (MVIs). All resources are from the National Mass Violence Center unless otherwise noted.
General
- National Town Halls – Quarterly, virtual training webinars that provide best practices and evidence-based strategies for mass violence preparedness, response, recovery and resilience.
- SNAPS Mini-Webinars – Information on various topics relevant to mass violence.
- MVI Core Compendium – Existing and adapted resources that address mass violence readiness, response and resilience.
- Mass Shooting Playbook and Protocol – Resources for Mayors and Other Civic Leaders (United on Guns)
- Mass Shootings in America’s Cities – Mayors’ experience and lessons learned (The U.S. Conference of Mayors)
- Lessons Learned: Preventing, Preparing for, and Responding to Mass Shootings – a 2020 discussion among nine mayors whose cities experienced mass shootings (The U.S. Conference of Mayors)
- The Role of Police Executives in Assisting Victims of Mass Violence – Lessons from the Field (Police Executive Research Forum)
Preparedness
- 16 Best Practices in Planning – Core planning checklist to ensure readiness before an incident occurs.
- Timeline of Activities to Promote Mental Health Recovery: Recommendations for Before, During and Following a Mass Violence Incident – Guidance on supporting behavioral health before, during, and after a mass violence incident.
- Victim Assistance Agency/Organization “Go Kit” – Comprehensive list of documents, materials, and supplies to have ready for rapid response.
- Tips for Volunteer Management & Checklist – Guidance on planning for, training, and managing volunteers before, during, and after a mass violence incident, including a practical checklist to support safe and effective volunteer operations.
Response
- Overview of Three Centers: Friends & Relatives Center, Family Assistance Center, and Resiliency Center – three different types of resource centers that community and law enforcement leaders, victim services and behavioral/mental health professionals can establish.
- A Guide to Agencies that Respond to Mass Violence Incidents – Outlines the roles and responsibilities of responding agencies during a mass violence incident.
- Unexpected Challenges – Highlights issues communities and leaders should anticipate in the immediate aftermath of a mass violence event.
- Transcend – NMVC, a free self-help mobile app for victims, survivors, first responders and others affected by MVIs (available in both iOS and Android)
- The National Compassion Fund – Provides a single, trusted way for the public to donate directly to victims of a mass crime. The NCF is sponsored by the National Center for Victims of Crime, which also provides free technical assistance to mayors and their executive teams about establishing donation funds in the aftermath of MVIs.
- News Media & Survivors Tip Sheets – Practical guidance for working with survivors and families, including interview preparation and protecting autonomy.
- In the Aftermath of Mass Violence Incidents: Crime Victims & the News Media
- News Media Engagement: Victim Autonomy and Choice
- Tips for Crime Victims and Survivors: Guidelines for Media Interviews
- Preparing for News Media Interviews
- Additional Tips to Prepare for Media Interviews
- Media Guidelines for Homicide Family Survivors
Recovery
- NMVC Virtual Resiliency Center (VRC)– Resources to help individuals and communities recover from mass violence. Impacted communities can create their own virtual resource page within the VRC.
- Funding & Victim Compensation– Guidance for leaders to assist victims and families in navigating available support.
- Managing Volunteers – Best practices for coordinating spontaneous and affiliated volunteers.
- Managing Donations – Principles for transparent and equitable distribution of resources.
- Supporting Victims and Families – Advice on providing appropriate help to victims and families immediately after an MVI and in the months and years following.
- Unexpected Challenges – Highlights issues communities and leaders should anticipate in the immediate aftermath of a mass violence event.
- Tips for Donors Following Mass a Violence Incident – Advice on making a financial donation, asking employees to help their community, or providing services to victims/survivors or their families.
Resilience
- Creating a Permanent Memorial – Considerations for planning and maintaining lasting memorials.
- Commemorating the Annual Observance of a Mass Violence Incident – Strategies for inclusive and respectful community commemorations.
- Supporting Community Remembrance – Approaches to honoring those affected and strengthening community bonds.