Volunteer
FIR is built by volunteers. Over 120 people nationwide contribute their expertise because they understand what is at stake — and because no one else is doing this work at the community level.
What We Need
FIR needs people with skills, not just good intentions. If you have professional experience in any of the following areas, your contribution directly advances community resilience across the country.
Infrastructure & Engineering
Electric utility operations, water/wastewater systems, telecommunications, transportation, pipeline operations, facilities management. You understand how these systems work — and how they fail.
Cybersecurity & IT
OT/ICS security, network architecture, incident response, vulnerability assessment, SCADA systems. The cyber vector needs practitioners who have defended real networks.
Emergency Management
FEMA, state EM, local EM, National Guard civil support, CERT, disaster response. You know what works in the first 72 hours — FIR extends that to Day 30 and beyond.
Military & Law Enforcement
Active duty, reserves, veterans, federal/state/local law enforcement. Operational planning, logistics, security, intelligence, civil-military coordination.
Grant Writing & Government Funding
FEMA BRIC, DOE, USDA, EPA, OLDCC — if you have written federal grant applications and won awards, FIR needs your expertise to help communities fund their resilience roadmaps.
Training & Curriculum Development
Instructional design, LMS administration, adult learning methodology, assessment development. FIR is building a national training program and needs people who know how to build courses that stick.
Communications & Outreach
Writing, graphic design, social media, podcast production, public speaking, media relations. The message only works if people hear it.
Ham Radio & Amateur Communications
Licensed amateur radio operators are the backbone of post-BSE communications. If you hold a license — especially General or Extra class — your skills are directly applicable to every community assessment FIR conducts.
How Volunteering Works
FIR volunteers contribute remotely on their own schedule. There is no minimum time commitment. You are matched to projects that use your specific skills — not assigned to busywork. Current volunteer projects include community assessments, curriculum development, threat document research, grant application support, website and technology, and outreach.
All volunteers are encouraged to complete BSE 099 (free, 8 hours) to build shared threat language. Volunteers with assessment experience may pursue CRC, CIRP, or CBRA certification.
Sign Up
Tell us who you are and what you bring. A FIR coordinator will contact you within one week to discuss how your skills fit current projects.