SCEMD Hosts 2026 Day of Recovery to Strengthen Statewide Disaster Recovery Efforts

Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) hosted more than 100 emergency management professionals, community leaders, and nonprofit partners on Thursday for the agency’s 2026 Day of Recovery.

The annual event brought together recovery stakeholders from across the state to enhance coordination and strengthen strategies for helping communities rebuild after disasters. This year’s workshop focused on key lessons and success stories from past disasters that impacted South Carolina statewide, as well as on how to continue improving South Carolina's recovery.

Participants joined discussions with local emergency managers, nonprofit leaders, and state agency representatives, focusing on supporting disaster survivors, integrating mitigation into recovery, and involving all sectors in recovery.

“The Day of Recovery is about turning lessons into action,” said SCEMD Director Kim Stenson. “Each disaster teaches us something new, and by bringing our partners together, we’re strengthening our ability to support communities through every phase of recovery. When we coordinate early and often, we recover stronger.”

“Recovery doesn’t end when the immediate response is over. It’s a long-term commitment to helping communities rebuild and become stronger,” said SCEMD Chief of Recovery and Mitigation Emily Bentley. “Events like this ensure our partners are aligned, informed, and ready to meet the evolving needs of survivors across South Carolina.”

The event also provided valuable networking opportunities, allowing attendees to build and strengthen relationships across state, local, and nonprofit organizations. These connections are critical to supporting a coordinated, effective recovery following disasters.