Hurricane Katrina and the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001 caused many Americans to wonder how they can help prepare their communities.
Through Citizen Corps, individuals can learn about opportunities to get involved and help build capacity for first responders. With proper training and education, civilian volunteers expand the resources available to states and local communities. Many partner organizations offer public education, outreach and training for free.
Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT)
- Get CERT trained in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization and disaster medical operations.
Veterans Active in Citizens Corps
- Find veteran volunteer opportunities through Veterans Active in Citizens Corps.
American Red Cross
- Get trained in CPR and basic first aid and volunteer to help mass care and sheltering operations at your local American Red Cross Chapter.
Medical Reserve Corps
- Get trained and volunteer with Medical Reserve Corps to provide support during a public health emergency.
Neighborhood Watch & Volunteers in Police Service
- Support community safety and security by getting trained and involved in Neighborhood Watch and Volunteers in Police Service.
Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD)
- Find a volunteer opportunity with a Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD).
Fire Corps
- Volunteer to support local fire departments through Fire Corps.
Civil Air Patrol
- Civil Air Patrol recruits volunteers through local squadrons that support aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. This air auxiliary has been supporting missions since the 1940’s.
American Radio Relay League
- American Radio Relay League supports the advancement of Amateur Radio Service and trains individuals interested in learning the skill of operating ham radios.
Meals on Wheels Association of America
- Meals on Wheels Association of America and the MOWAA volunteers provide meals and essential disaster preparedness information to over one million seniors in the U.S. each day.
For more information on any of the above programs see Citizen Corps' Partner Programs and Affiliate Programs.