In The Zone: Keeping hope alive through shaky times

Authors

  • Vaughan Milner A member of ANZASW, a Registered Social Worker and Chief Executive of Presbyterian Support Upper South Island.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11157/anzswj-vol25iss2id80

Keywords:

canterbury earthquakes, christchurch earthquakes, disaster, recovery, organisation management, community needs,

Abstract

Social service organisations exist to provide help and support when life is difficult. Maintaining this through the crisis and long recovery from significant natural disasters requires purpose, resources and care full attention to staff. Presbyterian Support Upper South Island (PSUSI) had a pre-earthquake focus on activity that supported community connectedness. The need for this type of work has become more pronounced during the two years since the September 2010 earthquakes. This article explores from a management perspective what it has taken to keep the organisation running and the challenges of flexing from core activities through the ever changing and shaky reality known as the new normal. The way the value dimensions of the organisation have been tested is canvassed as is the way they have provided an enduring capability platform. A conceptual model encompassing community needs during the quakes and for the future is developed.

References

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Published

2016-05-15

How to Cite

Milner, V. (2016). In The Zone: Keeping hope alive through shaky times. Aotearoa New Zealand Social Work, 25(2), 45–57. https://doi.org/10.11157/anzswj-vol25iss2id80

Issue

Vol. 25 No. 2 (2013)

Section

Articles

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