(Washington, DC) The DC Commission on National and Community Service's DC Citizen Corps, in partnership with the Office of Neighborhood Services and the Department of Employment Services, will help recruit 320 additional District residents to participate in Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training and Senior CERT programs.
 
This new partnership awarded the District funds to create a six-month position for four Emergency Outreach Specialists to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane Isabel. The National Emergency Grant is being funded by the US Department of Labor. 

The Emergency Outreach Specialists efforts will be aimed at community groups such as civic associations, Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners (ANCs), Police Service Areas, faith-based organizations, and local businesses. Residents will receive CERT training in areas of disaster preparedness, fire suppression, emergency medical operations, light search and rescue techniques, and response to terror attacks.

The DC Citizen Corps creates opportunities for individuals to help their communities prepare for and respond to emergencies. Through its comprehensive training program and interactive learning techniques, the program provides valuable emergency protection services to the District. 

About DC-CNCS
The mission of the DC Commission on National and Community Service (DC-CNCS) is to strengthen and promote the spirit of service in the District of Columbia through partnerships, national service and volunteerism. The Commission administers AmeriCorps and Learn and Serve programs in the District and facilitates collaboration among all national service programs. Under the DC Citizen Corps initiative, DC-CNCS provides citizens with volunteer opportunities to help their communities prepare for and respond to emergencies. DC-CNCS also leads Emergency Support Function (ESF) #15 Donations and Volunteer Management in the District's Emergency Response Plan. Other initiatives to promote civic engagement include the monthly Mayor's Community Service Award, National Youth Service Day, and the DC Service Conference.    

For more information contact Jerome Duval, Director, DC Citizen Corps at (202) 727-7925.