NESST 2020
As a result of the continuing restrictions resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak, the NESST Organizing Committee has made the difficult decision to cancel NESST 2020. With large gatherings still posing a high risk for the spread of COVID-19, the BC Ministry of Health is continuing to ban mass gatherings of 50 or more people. We encourage everyone to take measures necessary to stay safe during this time, and we look forward to having everyone come together for the opportunity to network and train at NESST 2021.
NESST 2021
Preparations are underway for the 2021 Northern Emergency Support Services Training Conference (NESST)
The details for this long awaited event will be announced soon.
2021 Sponsors & Hosts
Sponsors
Diamond
Platinum
Silver
Bronze
Supporter
Registration Fee
Registration fees will be announced with the opening of registration.
If you are registering as a team, please register each member individually.
Gift Baskets
Your hosts request that each team bring a gift basket to be given away during the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. Some ideas include local arts and crafts or community promotional items.
Convergent Volunteer Management
Justice Institute of BC
Learn about managing large numbers of untrained convergent volunteers in this highly participatory workshop. Participants will have the opportunity to set up a volunteer services centre. This course is intended for those on the ESS team responsible for managing convergent volunteers.
Psychological First Aid
Health Emergency Management BC
Psychological First Aid (PFA) is not therapy; it is a model of providing immediate practical support and empathy to individuals who are distressed. The goal of PFA is to facilitate resilience through education about coping strategies and available resources; humane supportive responses to fellow human beings who are suffering and who may need support.
Resource Acquisition
Justice Institute of BC
Learn about the roles, functions, and planning of a Resource Acquisition unit in a Reception Centre. Learn about the identification of essential resources, how to set up agreements with suppliers before an emergency occurs, and how to access, distribute, and track these resources during an emergency.
A Brief Overview of Dakelh and Witsuwit’en Culture and History
Bruce Allan & Corinne George
This full day workshop provides a short glimpse into the histories of Aboriginal people in Northcentral British Columbia with a particular focus on the Dakelh. Some of the topics covered: Traditional history/culture, colonization, Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the Highway of Tears, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and contemporary circumstances.
ESS Site Management
Justice Institute of BC
This course will familiarize participants with the roles and responsibilities of the Emergency Support Services (ESS) management team and provide participants with an opportunity to perform relevant activities and processes. In this context, the ESS management team includes Reception Centre and Group Lodging Managers; Information, Liaison, and Safety Officers; and Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance Section Chiefs.
Diffusing Conflict in Emergencies
Carolyn Sinclair
This workshop will introduce participants to tips and tools for dealing with difficult people and situations during emergencies or critical incidents. Being able to identify, address and resolve conflict promptly is a valuable skill when managing an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), a Reception Centre or Group Lodging facility. Confusion and fear contribute to people having heightened anxiety and emotions during and following emergencies. Understanding and promptly eliminating conflict can lead to healthier spaces and workplaces.