Fulton County Emergency Management Agency is one of the many volunteer based services in the community that goes unnoticed until a time of emergency. Highlighting them for National Volunteer Week, which started April 21 and ends April 27, Fulton County 911 and EMA Director Gail Karas says although they have grown over the past few years, volunteers are still needed for Fulton County EMA. 

National Volunteer Week was designed to raise awareness about the ever-growing need for increased volunteer efforts, and the fulfillment experienced by those who volunteer. Emergency management, also known as disaster management, is an organized response team that coordinate resources and equipment across the community to assist in responding to an emergency. Some of the work includes analyzing and preparing damage assessments following a severe weather or a disaster, traffic control, and more. 

Karas said although many of her volunteers with Fulton County EMA have different reasons for joining, each have their own useful place in helping the community. 

For those interested in volunteering for Fulton County EMA, Karas says the group provides free training for those that don't have the credentials, . The only requirement that makes or breaks whether you can join is if you can pass a background check. 

For more information you can call Karas or Fulton County EMA Deputy Director Dawn Sewell at 574-223-6611 or 574-223-2910.

You can also stop by the Fulton County EMA at 1728 E State Rd 14 in Rochester for an application. Office hours are Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.