Filling the Recovery Gap: IEM Helps Washington State Build Its Individual Assistance Program 

When federal disaster assistance is uncertain, states are left to fill the recovery gap on their own. IEM helps them do it by building the plans, policies, and programs that ensure no survivor is left behind. 

Recognizing the need: A Safety Net for Survivors Left Behind 

Federal disaster assistance is increasingly unpredictable, and when it falls short, survivors are left without a safety net. The Washington Military Department’s Emergency Management Division (WA EMD) recognized this gap firsthand. Survivors with unmet needs, those without insurance, underinsured, or ineligible for federal disaster assistance, are left vulnerable and unable to recover after a disaster. WA EMD set out to change that, turning to IEM’s Individual Assistance (IA) experts to build a tailored IA plan to address critical recovery needs. 

The IEM Approach: From Research to a Ready-to-Use IA Plan 

IEM’s team brings real-world experience in recovery programs, disaster case management (DCM), and housing. Drawing on that expertise, we conducted thorough research and analysis of Washington’s programs to develop an IA plan that closes gaps, identifies funding streams, engages stakeholders, and maps a clear path to recovery. 

At the heart of the work, IEM developed a state eligibility model for disaster assistance, documenting the standards used by federal agencies and disaster aid organizations. Our teams carried out every facet of program research and development, employing a range of methodologies, including statistical analysis, survey design, and both quantitative and qualitative approaches, to ensure thorough, effective, and defensible results. 

The IEM Impact: A Plan Ready to Put Survivors First 

IEM’s IA plan provided WA EMD with a comprehensive framework for survivor assistance, including special programs, extended shelter assistance, and DCM. The plan delivered a comprehensive analysis of IA programs in other states, paired with recommendations tailored to Washington’s unique needs, giving the state both a working plan and the context to refine it over time. 

Taylor Dietz, WA EMD Human Services Program Supervisor, expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts with the IEM team: “It has been a pleasure working with you and the rest of the IEM team. We appreciate your hard work, ability to listen openly to our suggestions, and helping us navigate through the more complex components of program building. We have learned a lot along the way!” 

When federal recovery assistance is uncertain or falls short, IEM helps states develop a plan that complies with state laws, identifies funding streams, engages stakeholders, and addresses critical shortfalls. 

Why States Choose IEM for IA Program Management: The Experience and Readiness to Deliver at Any Scale 

• Nationwide IA experience. IEM has supported over 51 Individual Assistance projects across 31 states, applying proven strategies for both federally-funded and state-managed programs.  
• Trained cadre, ready to deploy. IEM maintains a dedicated cadre of IA-trained professionals ready for immediate deployment with no ramp-up required. Built on IEM’s first-of-its-kind IA training program, this workforce arrives response-ready from day one. 
• Federal and state policy expertise. Deep working knowledge of federal IA policy, including the Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide (IAPPG), coupled with familiarity with state-designed IA programs, ensures compliance and alignment across program structures. 
• Full lifecycle support. IEM supports IA programs from planning and program design through pre-declaration, response, and closeout, ensuring continuity at every stage. 
• Built to scale. IEM rapidly scales staffing and resources to meet the demands of any operation, large or small. 

Proven experience. Ready-trained teams. A faster path to recovery. 

Partner with IEM to strengthen your Individual Assistance program before the next disaster.

Connect with our experts.

Chris Smith

Director, Recovery

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Megan Bond

Program Manager, Individual Assistance and Human Services

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Diana Rothe-Smith

Program Manager, Disaster Housing and Survivor Services

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