About the National Preparedness Network

Who We Are

The National Preparedness Network is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on practical preparedness, self-sufficiency, and community resilience. We work at the household and community level to ensure people have the skills, knowledge, and support systems needed before a crisis happens.

Our approach is simple. Preparation should be practical, accessible, and rooted in real life. We do not promote fear. We teach people how to build capability.

Across Kentucky and expanding into surrounding regions, our programs are designed to strengthen individuals, families, and communities through education, hands-on training, and direct support.

Why We Exist

Communities across the country face increasing pressure from rising costs, food insecurity, natural disasters, and strained emergency services. In many cases, families are left to navigate these challenges with limited resources and little preparation.

In large-scale emergencies, response systems can become overwhelmed. Help may be delayed. In underserved areas, it may not arrive quickly at all.

We believe preparedness must begin before the crisis. When households have the tools and knowledge to respond, recover, and support one another, outcomes improve across the entire community.

Preparedness Gaps Persist

Only 32% of Americans report having a high level of preparedness efficacy, meaning they feel confident in their ability to prepare for disaster and believe it would make a difference; conversely, 68% have low preparedness efficacy

Commercialization in Education Dilutes Quality

For-profit educational institutions have proliferated, often prioritizing revenue over instructional quality. Critics describe many as “diploma mills” that exploit students financially without delivering meaningful outcomes

Food Insecurity Remains Widespread

According to the USDA, 13.5% of U.S. households (about 1 in 7) experienced food insecurity in 2023—meaning they lacked reliable access to sufficient, nutritious food

Our Story

The National Preparedness Network was born out of necessity, not in a boardroom, but in the real-world gaps between what communities need and what they’re often left without. Founded by educators, responders, and resilience advocates, our mission evolved from a single premise: everyone, regardless of income, location, or background, deserves the tools and training to survive and thrive.

Over time, our grassroots effort transformed into a national nonprofit, backed by an expanding network of experts, volunteers, and strategic partners. What sets us apart is not just the scope of our reach, it’s the depth of our commitment to local relevance. From Appalachia to the Heartland, we tailor our programs to meet the cultural, environmental, and logistical realities of each community we serve.

This is our story,one built on action, not abstraction. And we’re just getting started.

What We Do

The National Preparedness Network focuses on four core areas of impact:

Preparedness Education

We provide structured training through our Four Pillars of Preparedness framework, covering water, food, medical readiness, and security. These programs are designed for everyday people and focus on real-world application.

Food Security and Growing Systems

Through initiatives like Harvest & Hope, we support the development of community gardens, local food systems, and education around growing and preserving food. These programs reduce dependency and increase long-term stability.

Life Skills and Household Stability

Our Resilient Threads program focuses on essential life skills that strengthen households. This includes cooking, maintenance, preservation, and other foundational capabilities that reduce vulnerability during hardship.

Disaster Education and Response

We provide disaster education through workbooks, training, and public programs. When possible, we also support response efforts by working with local partners to deliver aid and resources directly to affected communities.