Voluntary agencies are a vital part of a community’s ability to prepare for, respond to and  recovery from disasters. Before a disaster, voluntary agencies help communities and families get prepared by providing disaster training, raising awareness regarding vital health and safety issues. After a disaster strikes, voluntary and faith-based organizations respond alongside state and local emergency responders, helping to address immediate needs of survivors. 

At FEMA, we engage the vitally important voluntary agency sector through Voluntary Agency Liaisons (VALs).  VALs act as a bridge between the community and the government.

To better understand the roles of a VAL, Click VAL BLOG