WMSCOG | Preparedness with a Purpose: ASEZ WAO Hosts Forum in Temecula

On August 10, 2025, Temecula City Hall hosted the Emergency Preparedness Forum, organized by ASEZ WAO. Around 70 participants, including members from local branches in Temecula, Cerritos, Torrance, and Orange County, gathered to learn and share about disaster readiness.
About ASEZ WAO
ASEZ WAO is an international volunteer service group of young adult workers from the Church of God, with members active in 7,500 churches across 175 countries (asezwao.org). Their mission, “Save the Earth from A to Z” and “We Are One Family,” reflects their commitment to both environmental protection and community well-being. Globally, ASEZ WAO has led projects ranging from environmental campaigns to disaster relief, including tree plantings, cleanups, and volunteer service, which has been recognized by awards such as the U.S. President’s Volunteer Service Award (https://asezwao.org/award).
A similar spirit of service was recently seen when ASEZ WAO volunteers joined in an Earth Day planting event in Torrance, CA—showing how local actions can connect to their broader mission (https://swrwmscog.org/news/earth-day-....
Forum Highlights
The forum began with an introduction to ASEZ WAO’s worldwide initiatives, followed by a discussion led by Mikel Alford (https://temeculaca.gov/directory.aspx..., Temecula’s Emergency Manager, and moderated by Niki Novak.
Topics covered included:
• Wildfire preparedness: how Temecula compares to high-risk regions like Los Angeles, what to keep in a fire safety kit, and the importance of seasonal readiness.
• Flood preparation: understanding local dam risks, lessons from Tropical Storm Hilary, and community resources such as sandbag distribution.
• Earthquake readiness: practical steps for families, seniors, and those in multi-story buildings, as well as handling power outages.
• Evacuation planning: local alert apps, FEMA resources, emergency kits (including for pets), and communication strategies during crises.
• Volunteer support: the value of CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training and how churches and groups can participate together.
Looking Ahead
The forum concluded with a Support Signature (https://asezwao.org/signature/) from Mikel Alford, expressing interest in establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ASEZ WAO in Temecula. This partnership would strengthen collaboration in preparing for and responding to emergencies.
As noted during the forum, disaster preparedness is most effective when carried out together—neighbors, volunteers, and city leaders working hand in hand. ASEZ WAO’s leadership reminds us that true preparedness is not just an individual effort—but a community endeavor—and one rooted in the mother’s love: nurturing, loving, and ensuring that no one is left alone.