We can use new volunteers to help us serve our community in times of need.
No ham license needed!
Wait, say, what?
For every licensed amateur radio operator (volunteer #1) pushing the transmit button at a station, we could use up to three more volunteers in a busy situation.
– Volunteer #2 could act as “scribe”, which is a good position for a newly licensed or an about-to-be-licensed volunteer.
– Volunteer #3 could help nearby to intake messages.
– Volunteer #4 could physically transport messages to and from the communications desk.
Background checks are often needed for volunteers. Our volunteer licensed amateur radio operators who join WashcoARES are checked through our county.
Currently the best method for non-hams is to join your local community CERT group. You will need this training for post-disaster anyway. Check it out: local CERT
Another option may be to volunteer at a hospital. They will run their own checks. Some hospitals have developed a subset of volunteers that can limit their volunteer hours only for a communications unit and not be required to work at the gift shop or reception desk.
As with any organization, I am sure there are other volunteer opportunities such as grant writer.
HAM: How to Join: If you have a desire to serve your community and have an amateur radio license – see the “How To Join” page.
Training: See our “Training” page.
