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IEEE MOVE Global Continues to Make an Impact Around the World
Los Angeles Fires and MOVE-3 Deployment
During the Los Angeles wildfires, IEEE-USA MOVE leadership communicated closely with Red Cross representatives to assess the situation. The Red Cross set up shelters in facilities that provided essential services, making it possible for those affected to receive support without an immediate need for additional resources. Fortunately, many individuals affected by the wildfires were able to evacuate to areas with power and communications, utilizing hotels and rental properties while temporarily displaced from their homes.
As conditions evolved and the need for assistance arose, IEEE-USA MOVE was prepared and quickly deployed MOVE-3 to the Border 2 wildfire near San Diego. MOVE-3 was onsite for 4 days with 2 volunteers. They assisted with setting up the American Red Cross (ARC) evacuation center computers to support the evacuee registration process. They also provided high speed internet service to the Red Cross evacuation shelter through the duration of their deployment. It is important to note that the commitment to safety is paramount, and MOVE has established processes and procedures to ensure the well-being of the crew and equipment during every deployment.
For each event, IEEE-USA MOVE collaborates with partners to identify the most effective ways to utilize their services. Every disaster is unique, influenced by factors such as the type of disaster, location, infrastructure impact, and access to nearby resources like hotels, airports, and highways. They take pride in contributing positively when services are needed most.
Inspiring Elementary Students with STEM and Coding
Melody Richardson, founder and coordinator of IEEE MOVE Community Outreach “STEM on the MOVE” program, visited an Elementary School in Georgia, USA, to engage students in discussions about the IEEE-USA MOVE program, the importance of STEM, and how challenges can lead to personal and academic growth. Melody provided real-world examples of how STEM is applied in disaster relief efforts and shared the importance of learning from challenges and using each as a stepping stone to success. Her message encouraged students to approach setbacks with perseverance and view them as improvement opportunities.
During the visit, Melody also participated in the Hour of Code challenge, guiding students through interactive coding activities demonstrating how technology can be accessible and fun. The hands-on session sparked curiosity and introduced students to the creative side of problem-solving.
By the end of the visit, students gained a greater appreciation for the role of STEM in addressing real-world challenges. They left feeling inspired to explore new opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math. Melody’s visit highlighted the power of STEM to empower individuals and positively impact communities.
IEEE MOVE India: Advancing Disaster Preparedness and Response through Technology and Education
The IEEE MOVE India program, a key initiative launched by the IEEE India Council in collaboration with state disaster agencies and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), is part of the IEEE MOVE Global program. The program aims to provide emergency response by offering temporary communication and power solutions in disaster-affected regions. Beyond disaster relief, IEEE MOVE India is deeply committed to raising awareness about disaster preparedness and promoting STEM education, engaging with schools and communities to emphasize how technology can positively impact society and contribute to addressing global challenges.
The foundations of MOVE India were laid in 2019 when Mary Ellen Randell, then the MOVE Community Outreach Program Director and 2025 IEEE President-Elect, visited Bangalore, India. This visit inspired the idea of establishing MOVE India. On 8 July 2021, the program officially launched, thanks to the leadership of prominent figures including Deepak Mathur, Region 10 Director and 2024 IEEE Vice President for Member and Geographic Activities (MGA), Suresh Nair, the 2021-22 Chair of IEEE India Council, Debabrata Das, the 2023-24 Chair of IEEE India Council, Prerana Gaur, the 2025 India Council Chair, and Sadhana Attavar, Chair of IEEE MOVE India. The core team of MOVE India also includes committee members like Arun Tankasali, Dr. Chengappa Munfandira, and Dr. Mousiki Kar, who head the Marketing, Technology, and Education Committees, respectively and two staff of GIEEE representing IEEE Inida Philanthropy, Ashoka Vittal and Swaraj H V. Together, they have been instrumental in shaping the program’s direction and ensuring its success.
In 2024, MOVE India conducted many programs including disaster awareness training in 27 schools, a Training of Trainers (TOT) program for IEEE SIGHT volunteers, and a workshop at the IEEE TENSYMP 2024 conference in Delhi, India. MOVE India also provided crucial aid to the victims of the Wayanad landslides by donating solar lanterns and mobile chargers, helping those affected by power outages. The program also launched a STEM kit to promote climate change awareness, followed by a training session in Bangalore, India, and a hands-on workshop focused on leveraging technology to combat climate change, which was conducted in Kolkata, India. Additionally, MOVE India organized 25 STEM workshops at various locations across India, raising awareness about climate change and sustainability.
In 2025, MOVE India continues to advance its mission with key developments, including the introduction of a modular MOVE India truck. Equipped with communication and power systems, the truck will serve as a mobile solution for future disaster response operations. Additionally, the MOVE India team will expand its disaster awareness training programs and STEM workshops, maintaining a strong focus on climate change and sustainability. Additionally, MOVEATHON, an ideathon exploring technological innovations to reduce disaster impact, is slated for later in the year.
On 15 January 2025, MOVE India, in collaboration with the IEEE SIGHT Kerala Section, organized a Disaster Awareness and Preparedness workshop at Vidodaya School in Kochi, Kerala, India. This workshop, attended by 300 students, provided essential knowledge for disaster response.
With a proven track record of impactful initiatives and the launch of the modular MOVE truck on the horizon, MOVE India is set to continue playing a pivotal role in disaster preparedness and response across India. Its commitment to disaster relief, education, and climate change awareness ensures that it will remain a vital force in building resilience and fostering community preparedness. Visit the IEEE MOVE donation page to help fund vital programs and aid local communities when disaster strikes.
