At #UNGA81, the IFRC will highlight a simple but essential message: pandemic preparedness begins in communities. It means investing before crises strike, strengthening local health systems, and ensuring trusted community responders are equipped and protected. The Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo shows why community engagement is critical. DRC Red Cross volunteers are building trust, addressing misinformation, helping people access care, and conducting safe and dignified burials to help stop transmission. Outbreaks start and end in communities. Preparedness must begin there.