Other Citizen Corps Programs

In addition to the programs administered by BJA, the following Citizen Corps programs encourage collaboration and volunteerism to enhance preparedness at the national, state, local, and tribal levels.

National Citizen Corps Council

The National Citizen Corps Council is made up of leaders from first responder groups, emergency management entities, volunteer organizations, government agencies, and the private sector. The National Council’s purpose is to foster collaboration; it is not an advisory or governing body and does not set national policy. The full National Council meets at least once a year, and smaller working groups meet more frequently. Member organizations include the Fraternal Order of Police, International Association of Fire Fighters, American Medical Association, National Emergency Management Association, Salvation Army, U.S. Conference of Mayors, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Leaders of the organizations and their colleagues at the state and local levels collaborate to create local Citizen Corps Councils and promote Citizen Corps’ mission.

State, Local, and Tribal Citizen Corps Councils

Citizen Corps Councils coordinate Citizen Corps programs, develop community action plans, assess possible threats, and identify local resources. Through the councils, all stakeholders can work together to prevent crime, ensure a coordinated response to all emergencies, and promote the value and relevance of volunteerism. As of April 2004, there were 53 state and territory councils and 1,139 county and local councils serving more than 137 million people, or 47 percent of the total U.S. population.

Community Emergency Response Teams

Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) train people in neighborhoods, the workplace, and schools in basic disaster response skills such as fire suppression, urban search and rescue, and medical operations and help them take a more active role in emergency preparedness. CERTs can give critical support to first responders, provide immediate assistance to victims, organize spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site, and help with nonemergency projects to improve community safety. In January 2002, 100 communities in 27 states had CERTs. The number has grown to more than 900 communities in 51 states and territories.

Medical Reserve Corps

Local Medical Reserve Corps (MRCs) coordinate volunteer health professionals and other citizens interested in health issues. MRCs provide ongoing support for community public health needs (e.g., immunizations, screenings, health and nutrition education) and help during large-scale emergencies such as assisting emergency response teams and caring for victims with less serious injuries.

Affiliate Program

The Citizen Corps Affiliate Program expands resources and materials available to states and local communities by partnering with programs and organizations that offer resources for public education, outreach, and training; represent volunteers interested in making their community safer; and offer volunteer service opportunities to support first responders, disaster relief activities, and community safety efforts. Organizations that are part of the Affiliate Program include the American Red Cross, National Crime Prevention Council, National Volunteer Fire Council, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

By enabling citizens to prepare for and respond to emergency situations, Citizen Corps programs are making communities safer and stronger throughout the nation.