Fairfax County Department of Emergency Management staff described opportunities for residents to join a Volunteer Emergency Team to support preparedness, response and recovery activities.

"This team allows residents to assist the county in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies," said Stephanie Umble, community engagement specialist. Umble said the team operates in cooperation with Volunteer Fairfax and other partners and that residents can sign up through the county’s volunteer management system; she said staff would follow up with interested applicants.

County presenters said volunteers may be asked to distribute donations, assist with debris cleanup, and serve in leadership roles. The department plans VET leader training to prepare residents to operate volunteer reception centers alongside staff and to intake spontaneous or unaffiliated volunteers during incidents.

Staff encouraged attendees to watch for informational sessions and emphasized that signing up is the first step; no qualification requirements, shift schedules, or stipend information were provided during the webinar.