Learn why hurricane resilience efforts are so critical

(Op-Ed by Donna Messer – Naples Daily News) For me and many who live in Naples, recent hurricanes have caused physical damage to our homes, property, and cars, as well as a growing dread of future storms.

We cannot stop hurricanes, but we can change how we prepare and respond as individuals and a community. There are specific measures we can take to build our environmental and community resilience.

Building resilience has never been more critical. That’s why Greater Naples Leadership is joining forces with the Collier Community Foundation and Naples United Church of Christ to host a free forum, “Taking the Punch out of Powerful Hurricanes: A Forum on Building Resilience,” on March 18, 2025, from 3:30–5 p.m. at Naples United Church of Christ.

These expert keynote speakers, moderated by Eileen Connolly-Keesler, president and CEO of the Collier Community Foundation, will provide the latest data and practical strategies to help us prepare for future storms:

• Matt Devitt, chief meteorologist at WINK News, will explore Collier County’s rich hurricane history, explain how hurricanes form — focusing on the role of sea surface temperatures — and demystify storm surge predictions. He will also discuss how wind, precipitation, and flooding compound hurricane impacts, and what the future holds amid a warming Gulf and rising sea levels.
• Jennifer Jurado, chief resilience officer at Broward County’s Resilient Environment Department, will examine global and domestic storm resilience projects. She will explain how coastal vulnerabilities are influenced by natural protections, winds, currents, and topography, compare risk profiles between Broward and Collier counties, and offer practical strategies for bolstering resilience while preserving Florida’s natural beauty.
• Dan Summers, director of Collier County Emergency Management, will outline how our county advances hurricane resilience through completed, ongoing, and planned projects. He will highlight proactive solutions for flood and wind protection, and how we can all work together to strengthen our infrastructure.

The forum will also feature information tables staffed by local environmental and resilience organizations. These will offer valuable insights on community initiatives, mental health support, and educational opportunities.

Our Gulf Coast lifestyle — beautiful beaches, thriving tourism, and vibrant local economy — depends on our collective resilience. This forum is not just about preparing for hurricanes; it’s about safeguarding our way of life. It’s a call to action for every resident dedicated to building a stronger, more prepared community.

I invite you to join us in this crucial conversation. Let’s learn, prepare, and empower ourselves to face whatever Mother Nature sends us. Please register for free at gnlwebsite.org, and together, let’s build a resilient future for Naples.

Donna Messer is president of Greater Naples Leadership and a resident of Old Naples. She also serves as a mentor in the Junior Women of Initiative Program at the Boys & Girls Club, on the United Arts Collier Ambassador Council, and on the Leadership Collier Foundation Advisory Council.

Click here to read the article online. 

Photo credit Caitlyn Jordan/Naples Daily News/USA Today Network- Florida