The 10th anniversary of 9/11 and the recent tropical storms on the East Coast remind us that you never know when a disaster might strike. In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, people want to help as much as possible. Volunteers are most effective with prior training, direction and specific expertise. Below you will find links offering options to become trained prior to a disaster striking:
Join your local CERT.
Community Emergency Response Teams was a concept developed in Los Angeles in the 1980's. The local fire department recognized the need to educate citizens of what to do in the event of a disaster. After the Whittier Narrows earthquake in 1987 FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Administration) also recognized the importance of preparing citizens in disaster response. There are now 7 different training sessions offered by local CERTs. Get involved and learn what to do in all types of disasters. Then when a disaster strikes, you and your family will be prepared to care for yourselves and you can assist others. Click here to learn more.
Join HandsOn in the Emergent Volunteer Center
Well intended people come out to help in the event of a disaster. However, they can often cause more harm than good to the first responders. HandsOn and Marion County have developed a place to organize all of do-gooders of our community. The Emergent Volunteer Center is open to all who want to volunteer in an disaster. Once first responders have had a chance to assess their needs, they inform the center and HandsOn helps volunteers find the perfect opportunity for them. This is a new concept for us so we need your help to test the system. Join us on October 22nd for an Emergent Volunteer Center Drill. Help us ensure we can help others when disaster strikes. Act Now!
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