Recently, we had the opportunity to engage with lawmakers in Arizona and share facts about the recently adopted Nonprofit Security Grant Program (originally introduced in Senate Bill 1713). This experience has highlighted the urgent need for coordinated efforts, increased resources and comprehensive preparedness to protect non-profit organizations and combat hate-related incidents.

In my interactions with lawmakers, there was a serendipitous moment when one of the most experienced members of Congress, previously unfamiliar with the bill, recognized the importance of the Arizona Nonprofit Security Grants Program. Despite the limited time left in Congress, he acted decisively, urging the Speaker of the House to support the House’s companion bill. This unexpected success highlights the importance of informed advocacy and the strategic importance of collaboration in communities. Cooperation between organizations such as the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), ADL, and the Arizona Faith Network (AIN) was born out of sharing resources to achieve greater results in line with common goals.

The Arizona Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides a unique opportunity to enhance the security and safety of small nonprofit organizations, especially those targeted for their beliefs. Unlike federal nonprofit security grant programs that require organizations to pay upfront and seek reimbursement, state programs offer upfront financial assistance. This crucial difference ensures that small and medium-sized nonprofits, which are often financially constrained, have access to the resources they need to protect their members from undue risk. As Congregational President Lev Shalom, I am grateful for the Flagstaff Police Department’s safety audit of the Temple and for securing federal funds to strengthen the Temple and keep the community safe.

However, physical hardening alone is not enough. Also, strict adherence to development and safety protocols should be a priority. We have mitigated our vulnerability by limiting access and implementing comprehensive security measures. It was essential to educate and involve the congregation in these procedures for use during all events held at worship services, religious schools and temples. Additionally, you should have a well-trained security officer in place and a competent and well-prepared replacement in place should the unexpected occur.

While we strive to prevent harmful incidents, we must recognize the unfortunate reality that unforeseen and threatening situations can still occur. To address this, we have taken the opportunity to participate in two national programs to raise awareness and prepare adults to avoid and respond to such incidents. Based on FBI analysis of fatal incidents, Active Attack (Active Shooter) training provides individuals with key knowledge on how to evade, deny, and defend during an active attack. The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office also offers this training, adding to it a situational awareness program to increase alertness in a variety of everyday situations.

In addition, the Stop the Bleed program provides hands-on training on immediate actions to take after being seriously injured in a shooting or accident. By empowering individuals to act quickly, lives can be saved in the first critical minutes. This program is generally free and is a valuable investment in community preparedness. I personally carry a small trauma kit in the back seat of my SUV because I consider myself well prepared for emergencies.

The Arizona Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides significant funding to strengthen the physical security measures and operating protocols of small nonprofits. But to truly save lives and protect against discrimination and hate-related terrorist incidents, we need to adopt a comprehensive approach. This requires combining the financial support provided by the program with customized security and safety protocols, strict adherence to these protocols, and training on how to prevent and respond to acts of terrorism.

Now is the time for our community to come together and support other initiatives such as our non-profit security grant program. By prioritizing legislative efforts, allocating resources and promoting inclusive preparedness, we can build a safer and more inclusive society. Let us strengthen our communities by confronting hate, protecting the lives of all potential targets, and fostering an environment in which everyone can thrive without fear.