Volunteer at a County emergency shelter

Current severe weather shelter response status: Not active

During dangerous weather emergencies, Multnomah County opens life-saving Disaster Resource Centers (DRCs) across our community that offer people shelter, safety, resources and connection — especially those who are at greatest risk of harm.

We often welcome the support of community members like you when the need arises. Depending on where we set up shelters, you might even be able to assist at a site in your own neighborhood!

Getting trained and gaining basic shelter skills ahead of time can help you be prepared and ready to support these important efforts. Attending a Disaster Resource Center info session and/or a General Staff training are a great way to start your volunteer journey. We also encourage you to visit the Roles and Requirements page to learn more about the required and recommended trainings for various volunteer positions. You can also request a group info session and training.

Upcoming Info Sessions and Trainings

DRC Info Sessions are virtual events for people interested in learning more about Multnomah County's Disaster Resource Centers. These are open to anyone who is interested. Simply save the Google Meet URL in your calendar and join us on the date and time of the session.

General Staff Trainings are virtual events for those interested in volunteering as General Staff in the County’s Disaster Resource Centers during severe weather sheltering events. An RSVP is required to attend this training. The Google Meet link will be emailed to you within 24 hours of the start of the training.

The Trauma-informed & De-escalation Tips Training is a new advanced training for current and prospective General Staff that provides an engaging overview of the person-centered approach, trauma-informed care and harm reduction practices that guide our DRCs, along with tips on de-escalation and ways to support our whole DRC community. An RSVP is required to attend this training. The Google Meet link will be emailed to you within 24 hours of the start of the training.

If you can’t attend any of the sessions listed below, fill out the Community Volunteer Interest Form to be notified about upcoming opportunities.

What’s it like to volunteer at a shelter?

Watch this County video about what it’s like to work in the General Staff role:

Questions?

Please send an email to ESF6.MassCare@multco.us.