Be Ready, Not Panicked: AARP VI Hosts Free Disaster Preparedness Summits Across the Territory

Christiansted, U.S. Virgin Islands: As the 2026 hurricane season begins, AARP Virgin Islands (AARP VI) is calling on residents to act now by attending its upcoming Disaster Preparedness Summits, designed to help individuals and families prepare for, respond to, and recover from severe weather events.

The free, in-person summits will be held on:

• July 7, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  UVI Medical Simulation Center, St. Croix
• July 10, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  UVI Innovation Center, St. Thomas

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These interactive sessions will bring together community leaders and emergency management experts to share practical tips and resources to help Virgin Islanders build resilience before, during, and after a disaster.

“Preparation is one of the most powerful tools we have,” said AARP VI State Director Troy De Chabert-Schuster. “By taking a few simple steps now, families can reduce the impact of storms and recover more quickly. These summits are about giving our community the knowledge and confidence to stay safe.”

The summits will feature speakers from key agencies, including:

• Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA)
• Virgin Islands Department of Health
• Virgin Islands Department of Human Services
• Virgin Islands Energy Office

Participants will learn how to:

• Build and maintain essential hurricane supply kits
• Safely store fuel and prepare for evacuations
• Protect and plan for pets during emergencies
• Stay informed using trusted alert systems and preparedness tools

In addition to expert presentations, attendees will receive giveaways and refreshments, and breakfast and lunch will be provided.

AARP VI emphasizes that preparedness doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Residents are encouraged to begin with simple steps, such as stocking water and non-perishable food, checking medications, and creating a family emergency plan.

Helpful preparedness tools include:

• Signing up for Alert VI through VITEMA for real-time updates
• Downloading disaster checklists and guides
• Visiting trusted resources such as Ready.gov, FEMA, and the American Red Cross

“Preparedness isn’t about panic—it’s about peace of mind,” De Chabert-Schuster added. “When we plan ahead, we protect what matters most.”

Registration is free, but space is limited. Residents are encouraged to RSVP at https://qr.aarp.org/DisasterPrepSummit or by calling 1-877-923-8300.

About AARP

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans age 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families—health security, financial stability, and personal fulfillment. Learn more at www.aarp.org or follow @AARPVI on social media.