The Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) has developed a comprehensive, management structure for the administration of grant funds. This structure abides by the guidelines established by the federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS). HSEMA's objective is to provide oversight and management of grant funds at the District agency and regional levels in order to improve mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities for all hazards. The team's specific priorities are to perform the following:

• Improve the District's and the region's administration of grant funding for disaster response and recovery capabilities by developing and maintaining an understanding of integrated operational capability developed in coordination with our federal partners, volunteer organizations, universities, and the private sector
  
• Assist all levels of District and regional government, first responders, volunteer groups, universities, and the public in meeting the responsibilities of public emergencies and challenges, through program management and coordination activities
  
• Use baseline program evaluation strategies to identify emergency preparedness areas in need of improvement and allow for a methodology for strategic planning and the justification of resource allotment
  
• Provide critical information to Congress, the public, the media, and the emergency management community by maintaining strict spending and activity records and by building partnerships with and among federal and regional entities, District agencies, other responder organizations, and the private sector.