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DISASTER RESPONSE

Early Response Teams (ERT)

The purpose of Early Response Teams (ERT) of The United Methodist Church is not to lead Disaster Response efforts but to assist as we are able, depending on the gifts and skills of the persons on our teams, and to provide emotional and spiritual support as an outgrowth of our discipleship.

Members of these teams are trained to assist survivors, remove debris, clean out flood-damaged homes, place tarps on homes, and prevent further damage, while providing a caring Christian presence. Current ERT Trainings

Early Response Teams are a collaborative effort of the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) and United Methodist Volunteers in Mission (UMVIM).

Basic Class

ERT volunteers must go through ERT training with UMCOR. This ensures that they will operate under specific guidelines that allow them to be productive and caring while causing no further harm or being a burden to the affected community. Topics covered in the class include the who, what, when, where and how of doing ministry, as well as hands on experience in the specific tasks that early responders are expected to accomplish.

Recertification 

Badges are issued for a 3 year period of time. Those who possess an UMCOR badge that has either already expired or is about to expire should register for a Recertification class. If you wait more than 1 year after the expiration date you will have to take the basic class again.