Welcome to HDEAA

At HDEAA, we pride ourselves on being a trusted broker of connections, a dedicated community partner, and an advocate for positive change. We bring together the knowledge, expertise, and resources of emergency, safety, preparedness, environmental, and health organizations throughout the greater High Desert (HD) region. Our goal is to foster collaboration and empower individuals, businesses, and communities in both our dense urban areas and rural landscapes.

As a broker of connections, we serve as a bridge between diverse organizations, facilitating partnerships that promote synergy and collective impact. We believe that by uniting the strengths and expertise of various entities, we can effectively address the unique challenges faced by the High Desert region. Through strategic collaborations, we work towards creating a resilient and thriving community.

As a trusted community partner, we are deeply committed to the well-being and safety of the High Desert population. We actively engage with local communities, listening to their needs and concerns. By fostering open dialogue and building relationships, we aim to empower individuals and organizations to take proactive measures towards emergency preparedness, safety, and environmental sustainability.

We are also advocates at heart, advocating for policies and initiatives that prioritize the welfare of the High Desert region. Through our extensive network and partnerships, we strive to influence positive change, raising awareness about critical issues and driving action towards long-term solutions. Our advocacy efforts encompass a wide range of areas, including emergency response planning, public health, environmental conservation, and community resilience.

With our sophisticated approach and commitment to excellence, we offer a range of services and resources to support individuals, businesses, and organizations in the High Desert. Our expert team provides consultations, training programs, and access to valuable information, equipping our community with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate emergency situations and promote a safer, healthier environment.

Whether you are a concerned resident, a business owner, or a community leader, we invite you to explore our website and discover the wealth of resources available to you. Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more resilient High Desert community, where individuals and organizations work hand in hand to overcome challenges and embrace a brighter future.

Together, let us create a safer, healthier, and more connected High Desert.

Our Core Programs

Fire Safe Councils

Our mission is to protect the people of San Bernardino County and their property from the effects of catastrophic fires through education, cooperation, innovation, and action. FSC staff helps implement projects, connect with community members, and leverage partnerships.

HDEAA

At HDEAA, we pride ourselves on being a trusted broker of connections, a dedicated community partner, and an advocate for positive change. We bring together the knowledge, expertise, and resources of emergency, safety, preparedness, environmental, and health organizations throughout the greater High Desert (HD) region.

Emergency Training

More than 4.6M people turn to the American Red Cross, the trusted training provider for First Aid, CPR, BLS, and more, every year to gain lifesaving skills. Trust us to deliver unmatched lifesaving training that will provide you the confidence and skills to act when moments matter.

Community Organizations Active in Disaster

The Morongo Basin COAD is a collaborative network of diverse organizations and community members committed to enhancing disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts in the Morongo Basin communities. By working together, we aim to strengthen the resilience of our region and ensure the well-being of our residents during times of crisis.

California no-cost Naloxone Distribution Program. HDEAA provides free opioid prevention, response training, and Narcan Nasal Spray in the Morongo Basin.

Narcan Distribution

Our space serves as a catalyst for discussions, enabling the exchange of ideas, innovative solutions, and best practices that benefit our entire community. By providing a platform for organizations to come together, we create an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

The Center

Executive Director

Justin Merino, Wildfire Mitigation and Resilience

Wildland Firefighter, EMT, Mental Health Resilience Officer, Red Cross Instructor

Justin Merino’s career spans from creative industries to emergency medical services, showcasing his ability to navigate chaos and find solutions without clear precedents. With a talent for turning ambiguity into clarity and action, he thrives in achieving the impossible and adapting to change. Justin is committed to continuous learning and collaboration, believing in the power of teamwork to achieve the best outcomes.

Balancing creative and EMS roles, Justin excels in both big-picture thinking and detail-oriented tasks. He is action-oriented, willing to contribute at any level to enhance team effectiveness and achieve collective goals.

As an Emergency/Disaster leader, Justin has significantly contributed to organizations such as the City of Los Angeles, the American Red Cross, the United Nations, and the San Bernardino County Sheriff Medical Reserve Corps, among others. His emergency management expertise is complemented by his work as a Creative Producer for international brands like Mercedes-Benz, Warner Bros., Adidas, Deutsche Telekom, and more.

Justin's diverse background and passion for collaboration enable him to drive success in any project. His ability to build strong partnerships and navigate complex challenges ensures collective success. Through his extensive experience and dedication, Justin exemplifies humility and a commitment to achieving extraordinary results for the community.

merino@hdeaa.org | 760-853-0220

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