Helping Communities Prepare, Respond, and Rebuild
When disaster strikes, volunteers are among the first to step forward. At Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership (CVNL), we coordinate volunteer efforts before, during, and after emergencies to ensure that help reaches those who need it most.
Through VolunteerNow.org, CVNL mobilizes volunteers across Marin, Napa, Solano, and Sonoma Counties to support disaster preparedness, response, and long-term recovery.
Preparedness
CVNL works year-round with local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations to build disaster readiness and resilience. As part of the region’s Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COADs) and Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOADs), we strengthen community capacity through training, volunteer management planning, and coordination exercises.
Response
When emergencies occur, CVNL activates Emergency Volunteer Centers (EVCs) in all four counties to register, train, and deploy spontaneous volunteers safely and efficiently. Our team connects individuals and groups with urgent needs, such as food distribution, shelter support, and recovery assistance, while coordinating with county Emergency Operations Centers and partner agencies.
Recovery
Long after the headlines fade, CVNL continues to support recovery efforts by matching volunteers with rebuilding projects, nonprofit partners, and community initiatives. We help sustain volunteer engagement through the full recovery cycle, ensuring our communities emerge stronger and more resilient.
Get Involved
Join CVNL’s network of disaster volunteers and be part of a coordinated community response.
Sign up here (link to https://forms.zohopublic.com/virtualoffice11888/form/OnCallDisasterVolunteerIntakeForm/formperma/-yWhir9HQOoqoQFzzeK5e4u5Kj-mqOsDA8EJzQSPS8A) to receive alerts and opportunities.
Nonprofits and agencies: Partner with us to identify your volunteer needs during disasters. Contact portal.manager@cvnl.org for more information.
Together, we can ensure that when disaster strikes, our community is ready to respond: stronger, safer, and more connected.
Solano VOAD (formerly COAD) is the vehicle in Solano County, California for coordinating private sector, non-profit & community based organizations, the faith community, and government agencies serving human and animal needs following a disaster.
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