10/16/2026
Huntington County COAD Approves Bylaws and Leadership Appointments
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — The Huntington County Emergency Management Agency is pleased to announce that the Huntington County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) approved its bylaws and leadership appointments during its October 16 meeting at the Youth Services Bureau.
A COAD is a local network of nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups, businesses, government agencies, and community partners that work together to prepare for disasters and support recovery. By building relationships before an emergency, a COAD helps partners coordinate volunteers, donations, and other resources, reduce duplication of services, and identify needs that might otherwise go unmet.
During recovery, a COAD can help connect individuals and families with assistance for needs that remain after immediate emergency services have ended. It supports and complements the work of emergency responders and existing assistance organizations.
The approval of bylaws and leadership appointments marks an important step in establishing this network in Huntington County.
The approved leadership includes:
* Chair: Sarah Kemp
* Vice Chair: Michelle Crone
* Secretary: Jamison Heyde
* EMA Liaison: Thomas Fuller
* Case Management Chair: Karen Bennett
* United Way Liaison: To be determined upon hiring
The COAD will initially establish two committees: an Executive Committee and a Case Management Committee. These committees will help guide the organization’s work, coordinate available resources, and support residents with disaster-related needs.
The remaining 2026 meetings are scheduled for Friday, November 20, and Friday, December 18, both at 9:00 a.m. at the Youth Services Bureau.
All meetings are open to the public. Community organizations and residents interested in supporting disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts are encouraged to attend.