Disaster Volunteering
Train NOW to Volunteer for Future Disasters
Following a major disaster, most relief organizations and emergency responder agencies are extremely busy, even if they are outside the affected area. Organizations can become overwhelmed with too many volunteers. The best time to sign-up to volunteer is during a non-disaster time. This allows you to train with a disaster relief organization to be ready when the next emergency strikes.
To find a training or volunteer opportunity go to our home page, CaliforniaVolunteers.org, enter your zip code and select “Public Safety and Disaster Preparedness” from the pull down menu. You will receive a list of potential opportunities in your area, such as joining a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
In addition, you can find more about volunteering in times of disaster information here:
The California Medical Volunteer Site
If you're a licensed health professional with an active license, or a member of a medical disaster response team in California who would like to volunteer for disaster service, visit the The California Medical Volunteer Site, a secure, confidential Web site to register with the State of California for volunteer emergency/disaster service.
During the on-line registration process, you will be asked to enter information regarding your license (if applicable), the best way to contact you, and other relevant background information.
Once you've registered, your credentials will be validated - before an emergency - so that you can be deployed quickly and efficiently. Your information will only be viewed by authorized system managers. During a State or national disaster, (e.g., an earthquake, severe weather event, or public health emergency), this system will be accessed by authorized medical/health officials at the State Emergency Operations Center or your county. If a decision is made to request your service, you will be contacted using the information you enter on the site. If you agree to deploy, your information will be forwarded to the appropriate field operation officials.
How to Volunteer in Times of Disaster
When a major disaster does occur in California, information will be posted here on how you can help.
If you are not already trained and pre-registered, but you have special skills that can assist an ongoing relief and recovery operation, contact your local volunteer center. Contact information can be found here.
Be sure to find out where and when you will be needed, how to dress appropriately and what supplies you will need to bring. This may include food, water and personal protective equipment. Keep in mind that during a disaster first responders and disaster relief organizations may be working at capacity and an unexpected arrival of hundreds of volunteers may negatively impact their relief and recovery efforts.
An online tool is under development to connect individuals who want to help in times of disaster with appropriate volunteer opportunities. Individuals will be able to register their availability, identify special skills and provide contact information for referral to disaster relief organizations.
