How Can I Get a Job With FEMA As a Temporary Disaster Relief Volunteer?

Take a disaster training class. FEMA recommends taking classes through its Emergency Management Institute, which offers virtual, self-paced classes that are free for people who qualify to enroll. Classes focus on the main emergency preparedness areas, such as service to disaster victims, emergency communications and hazard mitigation. Consider taking a class that fits your background to boost your resume and volunteer abilities; for instance, if you work with animals in your career, take a class such as "Animals in Disasters: Community Planning." Bolstering your skills in your area of expertise will help make you an invaluable asset in a disaster.

Take a first aid and CPR class at your local community college, the American Red Cross, Citizen Corps or online. Many of these are free of charge, and the skills they provide are well-suited to emergency disaster relief work. It is also helpful to have CPR certification in an emergency.

Volunteer at the American Red Cross, as FEMA recommends. The Red Cross relies on volunteers for 96 percent of its workforce, according to the Red Cross website, which means it always appreciate more help. This is an effective way to gain experience as a volunteer, and much of its work involves disaster relief, including 150 house fires the Red Cross helps with every day.

Enter FEMA's website and check the home page for recent disasters and emergencies that need volunteers. The list is usually long and includes a number of local U.S. emergencies, as well as major disasters abroad. Click on an emergency you would like to help and follow links to news that will give you an idea of what the affected community needs.

Watch the local news when local disasters strike. FEMA might issue a call for volunteers, with information about exactly what to do to help.