About Mahaska County Community Emergency Response Team
Discover the heart of community preparedness. The Mahaska County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a vital volunteer organization dedicated to strengthening our community's ability to respond to emergencies. Learn about our mission, our impact, and how we empower local citizens to make a real difference.
Our Inspiration and Unique Spirit
Mahaska County CERT was founded on the belief that strong communities are prepared communities. Inspired by the idea that neighbors helping neighbors can make all the difference, our program unites local volunteers dedicated to supporting emergency preparedness, assisting first responders, and aiding our community during times of need. Like other CERT programs, we train ordinary citizens to perform extraordinary tasks during disasters, severe weather, public emergencies, and community activities. What truly sets Mahaska County CERT apart is the deep local commitment – our volunteers step forward to protect and care for their own community with unwavering dedication. We exist because our community values preparedness and believes in helping others when it matters most.
Supporting Our Community Every Day
Beyond responding to major disasters, Mahaska CERT actively supports our community and local emergency services daily. Our members assist by:
- Supporting community events: We help with traffic control, crowd guidance, hydration stations, setup, safety monitoring, and public assistance during local fairs, festivals, and parades.
- Providing preparedness education: We share crucial information on severe weather safety, emergency kits, family preparedness plans, fire safety, and disaster readiness to ensure residents are prepared before emergencies strike.
- Assisting emergency services: We provide non-emergency support to local first responders, allowing them to focus on critical operations during incidents and large public events.
- Offering rehabilitation and hydration support: We provide cold water, ice, cooling stations, and support for emergency responders, volunteers, fair workers, and community members during hot weather.
- Supporting communication and coordination: We help relay information, organize resources, and assist with logistics during emergency operations and community activities.
Make an Impact With Mahaska CERT
The most important thing to know about Mahaska County CERT is that we transform ordinary community members into a trained, organized support system that responds when it matters most – often when no one else is immediately available. The impact extends beyond disaster response; it encompasses everything that makes our community more prepared, more connected, and more capable of handling emergencies together. Supporting Mahaska CERT means strengthening the people who show up first, stay longest, and help neighbors during their greatest times of need. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, your assistance or donations directly enhance our ability to support emergency responders and those requiring aid after events like house fires or other emergencies.
"The Mahaska County CERT team exemplifies true community spirit. Their dedication to preparedness and immediate response is invaluable, making our county a safer place for everyone."
Mahaska County Emergency Management