City of Talladega Blog

(Talladega, AL) The City of Talladega will host a City Informational on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, 5:30 p.m., at Talladega City Hall. Guest speakers will include American Red Cross Community Disaster Program Manager Adisa Pruitt and Regional Volunteer Services Officer Darrius Jackson, who will discuss a vital new emergency preparedness program. 

"Talladega is the first city in this region selected to pilot a critical new American Red Cross project, which will establish a cadre of local volunteers who can be mobilized to assist community members in times of crisis,” said City Manager Derrick Swanson. "This initiative is championed by Mayor Ashton Hall, who, along with Red Cross representatives, will give community members an opportunity to learn more about volunteer needs as well as important Red Cross services and benefits."

"Data indicates that Talladega's resiliency score is low due to its relatively high unemployment rate and other factors. As a result, the community might have great difficulty bouncing back following a disaster," said American Red Cross representative Adisa Pruitt. "By teaching disaster preparedness in advance, and equipping neighbors to help neighbors, we can help ensure that the community is better prepared for emergency situations."

“Many people are not aware of the services we provide,” she added. “We install smoke alarms as well as strobe lights and bed shakers for those who have hearing difficulties, and help create exit plans for fires and other emergencies. We also offer first aid training, life guard classes, and CPR training. In addition, we assist businesses by evaluating their emergency preparedness plans.”

Pruitt and Jackson will discuss these and other services during Wednesday’s meeting. The Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV), which provides both medical care and food during disasters, will be outside of city hall.