Thanks for your interest in volunteering to help with The Salvation Army's disaster relief efforts. Due to numerous regulations from FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security, it is no longer possible to "just show up" at a disaster site and help. There is now training required for all volunteers before they are even allowed into a disaster area. Please note the following information about how to become a Salvation Army Disaster Services volunteer.

Volunteers

The Salvation Army recruits and deploys disaster workers through its local Salvation Army units. To register as a disaster worker:

• Call your local Salvation Army
• Register online at www.disaster.salvationarmyusa.org

If you are a new volunteer, registering today, bear in mind that The Salvation Army deploys trained disaster workers already associated with The Salvation Army first.  A standard deployment is two weeks, including twelve working days and two travel days.  If you have not been trained or cannot commit to the time needed, it less likely The Salvation Army will deploy you to the disaster site.  There may, however, still be opportunities for you to serve locally at your local Salvation Army unit.

Do not travel to the disaster site on your own, without being deployed through your local Salvation Army unit.  Spontaneous volunteers arriving uninvited a disaster sight are not helpful and can impede the delivery of relief services at the disaster site.  If you do self-deploy, The Salvation Army makes no commitment to provide work, food, lodging, or any other form of support for you when you arrive.

Training

The Salvation offers training for disaster workers throughout the year.

For a complete list of the disaster training classes offered by The Salvation Army and a calendar of upcoming classes, visit our website at www.disaster.salvationarmyusa.org.  

Bear in mind that during a disaster operation, training opportunities may be limited as The Salvation Army’s disaster resources are focused on responding to the current crisis.  Therefore, individuals interested in serving as disaster workers should make every effort to take advantage of training prior to a disaster event. 

Volunteer Locations

Illinois (Central)
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Illinois (Chicagoland Area)
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Indiana
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Kansas & Western Missouri 
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Michigan (Eastern Michigan)
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Michigan (Western) & Northern Indiana
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Minnesota & North Dakota
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Missouri (Eastern) & Southern Illinois
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South Dakota, Nebraska, Western Iowa
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Wisconsin
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