Californiavolunteers Prepares Volunteer Network to Assist Firefighting

Volunteer networks across the state will be on call to augment state and local resources during the 4th of July weekend

Since the onset of the wild fires burning throughout California, CaliforniaVolunteers has been working closely with local volunteer centers to register hundreds of volunteers who can be deployed as they are needed.

Butte, Monterey, Kern, Trinity and Santa Barbara counties have been the hardest hit by these fires. Within these counties there are over 2,000 trained volunteers including up to 700 that could be deployed through local disaster volunteer programs. CaliforniaVolunteers has also partnered with local volunteer centers to identify those volunteers standing by to assist state and local resources. These volunteers could be immediately deployed upon instruction from local and state officials.

"As we have seen time and time again, the citizens of California are prepared to serve in times of disaster" said Karen Baker, Secretary of Service and Volunteering. "Volunteers can have a huge positive impact on recovery and fire fighting, but we must remind the public that these are highly dangerous areas and those who wish to volunteer should register and receive the proper training before deployment. Those interested in volunteering or making donations in the affected areas should visit www.CaliforniaVolunteers.org ."

CaliforniaVolunteers.org has dedicated a page of its Web site to provide opportunities to those who wish to volunteer or make a donation. Links to the Office of Emergency Services are also located on this page to provide detailed information on the affected areas. Volunteer and donation needs change often during disaster response and recovery, so it is recommended to check the Web site regularly.

Throughout the fire season CaliforniaVolunteers will continue to work with local volunteer centers throughout the state to help register new volunteers and provide resources to those who may be affected by the fires.

ABOUT CALIFORNIAVOLUNTEERS

CaliforniaVolunteers is the state agency that manages programs and initiatives to increase the number of Californians involved with service and volunteering. CaliforniaVolunteers administers California Citizen Corps, the state AmeriCorps and the Cesar Chavez Day of Service and Learning programs. Through the innovative Web site, CaliforniaVolunteers.org, individuals, families, businesses and groups can search for volunteer opportunities throughout the state that match their interests. For more information visit: www.CaliforniaVolunteers.org.

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