Join the Frontline of Rescue–Be a Life-Saver

Step up and make a difference. Wolfe County Search & Rescue needs dedicated volunteers like you.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

Heart of the Mission

At Wolfe County Search & Rescue, volunteers are the heart of our mission. Our team members come from all walks of life, united by a shared passion for helping others and saving lives. Whether you have experience in rescue operations or are just starting out, we welcome anyone with the commitment to step up when it counts most.

By joining our team, you’ll not only gain valuable skills and experience but become part of a community that makes a real impact, both in the wilderness and beyond. We provide the training, and you provide the heart.

What It Takes to Be a Volunteer

  • Time Commitment

    Volunteers must be ready to respond to emergencies and participate in regular training exercises.

  • Physical Fitness

    SAR missions often involve rugged terrain and difficult conditions, so a good level of physical fitness is required.

  • Team Player

    Search and rescue is a team effort. You must be willing to work closely with others and trust in your team.

  • Passion for Helping Others

    No previous experience is required, but a strong desire to help people in need is essential.

Training You’ll Receive

When you join Wolfe County Search & Rescue, you’re not just volunteering—you’re becoming a skilled rescuer. Our comprehensive training programs will prepare you for a wide range of emergency situations, including:

  • High-Angle Rope Rescue

    Learn how to safely execute rescues from cliffs, steep terrain, and other challenging environments.

  • Swift Water Rescue

    Gain the skills to navigate and respond to emergencies in fast-moving waters.

  • Wilderness Navigation

    Master essential techniques for operating in remote, rugged areas

  • First Aid & CPR Certification

    Get certified in life-saving medical techniques, so you’re always ready to respond in an emergency.

Ready to make a difference?

Take the first step toward joining a team that saves lives, provides hope and responds when it matters most.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

FAQs

Once you’ve determined that you can meet our commitment standards, the process of joining is fairly straightforward.

To get started, you’ll need to submit an application and undergo a background check. Applicants are also required to attend two meetings before the team votes on whether or not to accept them. The first meeting must be attended in person. During the second meeting, the team will hold a vote.

If you’re interested in joining, please complete the application by clicking the “Become a Volunteer” button below. Once your application is received, a team member will reach out to guide you through the onboarding process.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

We’re often asked how far away is too far to be a member of the team. Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer to this question. The key is being able to meet the team requirements and being frequently in the area so you’re available to respond to calls.

All Wolfe County Search and Rescue Team members are expected to meet the following minimum commitments:

  • Meet the team’s monthly training requirements.
  • Attend at least 50% of monthly meetings (either in person or via phone).
  • Complete the required prerequisite training within the first year of being accepted onto the team (see the “Required Training” section below).
  • Respond to at least four calls per year. While calls can occur at any hour of the day or night, on any day of the year, this minimum ensures active participation.

It’s important to note that call-outs and training will reshape your lifestyle as a search and rescue team member. These are just the bare-minimum requirements to maintain active membership—many of our members go above and beyond these expectations.

You must first go through a weekend of training in our Search and Rescue bootcamp, and then there are requirements of online courses you need to complete in your first year.