Opportunities to Get Involved

What to know

You can actively participate in emergency planning and response in your community. Many organizations have opportunities to get involved in emergency planning, training, and response.

Group of first aid trainees practicing emergency care outdoors.

Emergency planning volunteer efforts

  • Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. The CERT program, coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), has free emergency training and materials to help volunteers prepare for emergencies. Volunteers trained by the CERT program can assist in emergency responses, freeing up emergency personnel. Connect with your local CERT program to learn more.
  • Youth Preparedness Council. Students in grades 8–11 can apply to be part of FEMA's Youth Preparedness Council. The council provides an opportunity for youth to participate in emergency planning and disaster preparedness at a local and national level.
  • National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). VOAD is a coalition of volunteer organizations that responds to emergencies. People with disabilities looking to get involved with emergency response can find opportunities to volunteer with VOAD.
  • American Red Cross Disaster Preparedness Volunteer. The American Red Cross has volunteer opportunities for people who want to get involved in emergency preparedness and response. Volunteers can play an active role in responding to community needs during an emergency or in training others in emergency preparedness.

Other ways to get involved

You can also contact your local public health office or local emergency management office to identify advisory groups in your area that work on emergency preparedness activities. In addition, every state has a Statewide Independent Living Council and a State Council on Developmental Disabilities that may help you identify opportunities for participation. Some communities and state offices of emergency management may also have disability inclusive or access and functional needs committees.

Finally, you can also discuss the importance of emergency planning with your family, friends, neighbors, and community members.

Resources

Find a broad compilation of resources on emergency preparedness and response that can be filtered by audience and topic: Resources.

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Content Source:
National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD)