If you’re interested in learning more about volunteering to assist with Hurricane Irene response and recovery, please visit our Disaster Volunteers page – thanks!

HURRICANE IRENE UPDATE (August 27, 2011):  As Hurricane Irene approaches, please be prepared and stay safe.  Updates area available via the MEMA (Maryland Emergency Management Agency) website.  Please be sure to check with your local government’s website for updates, as well.

As always, we ask that community members do NOT self-deploy as volunteers in times of disaster. If you are interested in volunteering, please follow the link to your local volunteer center and register with them, if possible.

Please be patient as communities assess their needs, and follow instructions about how to help – this ensures that well-intentioned folks don’t end up further stressing a community responding to disaster (potentially requiring shelter, food, and supervision when resources are already scarce).  We will keep this site updated as we learn of opportunities to assist local communities with response and recovery.  Please also check with the Governor’s Office of Service and Volunteerism’s Disaster Volunteering page for updates.

Also, remember that the preferred donation type is always financial – it allows reputable response agencies to purchase what they need (often in the affected community, supporting local businesses).  If you insist on collecting donated goods, ALWAYS confirm the NEED and the DESTINATION BEFORE collecting and remember that affected communities might have a hard time storing goods.  Thanks!

Want to volunteer in Maryland? Looking for volunteers in Maryland? You’ve come to the right place!

Volunteer Centers serve local communities by mobilizing people who want to serve and helping them connect with agencies seeking volunteers.

The easiest way to start is by clicking here to find your local volunteer center!