Partnership debut includes free LEOP Self-Assessment Tool, giving communities a quick way to check the strength of their emergency plans

December 2025 — PDR Strategies and Next Wave Preparedness announce a new partnership to strengthen local government preparedness, continuity and communication across New Hampshire and Maine.

The collaboration brings together Next Wave Preparedness’ expertise in emergency management, planning and training with PDR Strategies’ leadership in strategic and crisis communication, public information and executive organizational development. Together, the firms provide a comprehensive set of services to help cities and towns modernize and strengthen their emergency and continuity planning efforts.

“Municipal leaders face increasing challenges, from severe weather to staffing shortages, and they need trusted partners who understand both planning and communication,” says Paul D. Raymond, Jr., founder of PDR Strategies. “By combining our strengths, we help local governments plan effectively and communicate clearly and confidently when it matters most.”

Services now available through the partnership include:

• Local Emergency Operations Plan (LEOP) reviews and rewrites

• Continuity of Operations (COOP) planning

• Strategic and crisis communication support

• Strategic planning and facilitation

• Training and exercises for municipal and leadership teams

“We meet communities where they are,” says Emily Kaster, CEM, CEO of Next Wave Preparedness. “Whether it’s a small town updating its emergency plan or a city refining its communication strategy, we aim to be trusted partners who help local governments become ready, resilient and responsive.”

The firms also release a new free LEOP Self-Assessment Tool, developed to help municipalities quickly determine whether their emergency operations plan includes the essential elements of a modern, functional plan.

For more information, to schedule an initial consultation or to download the free LEOP Self-Assessment Tool, visit www.pdrstrategies.com/nwp.

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About PDR Strategies

PDR Strategies is a New Hampshire-based consulting firm specializing in strategic communication, crisis management, leadership development and public information. Led by FEMA-trained Executive PIO and former state Assistant Commissioner Paul D. Raymond, Jr., PDR Strategies helps public agencies and organizations build trust through clarity, transparency, and preparedness.

About Next Wave Preparedness

Next Wave Preparedness provides emergency management planning, training, and exercise design for municipalities and organizations across New England. Founded by Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) Emily Kaster, the firm helps communities develop practical, actionable plans to prepare for disasters and emergencies.

CONTACT:
Paul D. Raymond, Jr., Founder, PDR Strategies – paul@pdrstrategies.com
Emily Kaster, CEM, CEO, Next Wave Preparedness – emily.kaster@nextwavepreparedness.com