Affiliated Team Volunteers (ATVs): Difference between revisions

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'''An Affiliated Team Volunteer ("ATV") is a volunteer who associates with and is assigned to a Neighborhood Emergency Team (NET) but does not possess full "Active" NET volunteer status.''' <span style="background:#FFFF00">'''They are not deployed or [[Volunteer Risk, Injury Coverage, and Indemnification|indemnified]] by the City of Portland,'''</span> though they have a profile in the NET volunteer database and an assigned role in a team's response framework.
== Policy Summary: Affiliated Team Volunteers ==
[[File:2018.05.20.MHall.MYN (2).jpg|thumb|345x345px|''Not all your neighbors need to be NET trained to participate in making a resilient community. Photo by Michael Hall (NET).'']]
An Affiliated Team Volunteer ("ATV") is a volunteer who associates with and is assigned to a Neighborhood Emergency Team (NET) and is [[Background Checks|background checked]], but does not possess full "Active" NET volunteer status. <span style="background:#FFFF00">'''They are not deployed or [[Volunteer Risk, Injury Coverage, and Indemnification|indemnified]] by the City of Portland.'''</span> They have a profile in the NET volunteer database, and may participate in non-deployment team activities with active NET volunteers.
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 30%;"
|+
|'''Effective date'''
|March 25, 2024
|-
|'''Last revised'''
|March 1, 2025
|-
|'''Policy owner'''
|PBEM Community Preparedness Team
|-
|'''Author(s)'''
|Jeremy Van Keuren (PBEM); David Given (NET); Kay Hilt (NET).
|}


'''What issues is this policy intended to address?'''  
</br>
__TOC__
</br>
 
=== Forms ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+
! scope="col" width="300px" style="background-color: darkkhaki;color:white;"|Relevant Forms
! scope="col" width="100px" style="background-color: darkkhaki;color:white;"|Updated
|-
|[https://app.betterimpact.com/Application?OrganizationGuid=5c003f3a-8d04-4cdf-b8c0-41627fea7871&ApplicationFormNumber=1 PBEM Volunteer Application]
|
|}
<br/>
[[File:2016.06.06.Woodstock (2).jpg|thumb|345x345px|''All neighbors have a role in disaster prep and response, not just NET trained neighbors!'']]


* Facilitate a denser neighborhood network for NET teams;
=== Reason for Policy ===
* Develop relationships with non-NET neighbors (i.e. prospective [[Spontaneous Unaffiliated Volunteers (SUVs)|spontaneous volunteers]]) ''before'' a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake. This positions them to help already acquainted with their neighbors and their skillsets already identified.
The Affiliated Team Volunteer (ATV) program supports Neighborhood Emergency Teams (NET) by fostering neighborhood resilience and preparedness while addressing these needs:
* Offer Active NET volunteers who wish to reduce their involvement a medial stage between "Active" and separating from NET completely.


ATVs appear on NET rosters ''only'' as prospective resources for an earthquake response. They are not required to log volunteer hours (though encouraged to do so) or meet the [[Minimum Service Contribution (MSC)|Minimum Service Contribution]].  
* Facilitating denser neighborhood social networks for NET teams.
* Building relationships with neighbors who may become [[Spontaneous Unaffiliated Volunteers (SUVs)|spontaneous volunteers (SUVs)]]  in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
* Providing a transitional status for active NET volunteers who wish to scale down their involvement without leaving the program entirely.
* Volunteer managers are assured that ATVs who respond with a current ID have been background checked by PBEM and have at least one specific, deployable skill. This is in contrast to [[Spontaneous Unaffiliated Volunteers (SUVs)|SUVs]], who are not vetted before they arrive and offer to help, and must be interviewed to determine their most appropriate placement.<br>
<br/>


A volunteer may join their local NET as an ATVs if they are either:
=== Policy Statement ===
Affiliated Team Volunteers (ATVs)  are community members who support NET teams in their local areas but do not hold full "Active NET" status. ATVs are envisioned as supplemental resources for their NET's earthquake response framework and as contributors to overall community resilience. Although they are not deployed by the City of Portland nor indemnified, ATVs may participate in preparedness efforts to strengthen neighborhood readiness for emergencies and to improve general resilience, and in some training and other team activities.
<br/>
<br/>


# An active NET who wishes to reduce their involvement but not leave the program entirely; or,
=== Scope ===
# A neighbor who resides in a team's [[Team Service Areas|Service Area]] and wants to help the team, but has not completed Basic NET training and may have no intention of doing so.
This policy applies to:
ATVs are envisioned as neighborhood-local volunteer resources to '''''supplement''''' a NET team in the aftermath of an earthquake. They fall under the response structure of their NET. The Team Leader of the NET in their neighborhood, therefore, is also their Team Leader.


<br />
* NET volunteers transitioning to a reduced role as an ATV.
__TOC__
* Community members who wish to assist NET teams without completing Basic NET training.
<br />
* Neighborhood Emergency Teams and Team Leaders coordinating earthquake response.
<br/>


==   Access and General Expectations of ATVs ==
=== Responsibilities ===
The following expectations and policies apply to all ATVs:


# '''A volunteer in ATV status is not indemnified by the City of Portland.'''
;Portland Bureau of Emergency Management (PBEM)
# The PBEM '''Volunteer''' '''[[PBEM Volunteer Code of Conduct|Code of Conduct]] applies to ATVs''' when affiliating with a NET and participating in any volunteer activities.
: Tracks ATVs in the volunteer database, ensures background checks, and communicates program updates.
# '''A volunteer in ATV status is never deployed by the City of Portland.''' ATVs may opt to self deploy in the event of an earthquake.
; Team Leaders
# '''An ATV ''must'' be affiliated with a Neighborhood Emergency Team''' and named on the team roster.
: Maintain roster accuracy, guide ATVs in selecting [[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|Volunteer Support Functions (VSFs)]], and provide team orientations.
# '''ATVs are not required to attend team meetings or to log hours,''' and their status is not tied to fulfilling the annual [[Minimum Service Contribution (MSC)|Minimum Service Contribution]]. However, they can do these things if they wish and are encouraged to.  
; Affiliated Team Volunteers (ATVs)
# '''ATVs are required to confirm their status with their Team Leader''' at least twice a year, and any time the Team Leader conducts a review of the team's roster. Team Leaders will have access to the contact information of ATVs on their team.
: Engage with their NET as outlined in this policy, adhere to the [[PBEM Volunteer Code of Conduct|Code of Conduct]], choose a [[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|VSF]], and confirm status biannually.<br/>
# '''All ATVs declare a [[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|Volunteer Support Function]] position appropriate for a non-NET volunteer.''' This declaration is made to their Team Leader and it appears on the earthquake response plan. ATVs may declare a secondary VSF with approval of their Team Leader.
# '''The assigned role ([[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|VSF]]) of an ATV is tied only to a NET's earthquake response framework.''' ATVs are envisioned assisting only in the aftermath of an earthquake. ATVs should be familiar with the latest edition of their NET's earthquake response framework.
# '''ATVs are tracked in the PBEM Volunteer database (as ATVs).''' This reporting is important for PBEM in assessing neighborhood earthquake readiness.
# '''ATVs are subscribed to ATV volunteer communications (such as occasional bulletins).''' Because of the need to be aware of key program news, an ATV cannot opt out of email communications. Communications will include training opportunities for ATVs.
# '''ATVs are permitted access to some low-risk NET advanced trainings''' if seats remain after they are offered to NETs.
#* Occasionally, ATVs receive priority access to advanced training seats for training in their chosen VSF.
#* Team Leaders should encourage ATVs to participate in team exercises, even if simply as [[Moulage|"volunteer survivors"]] or observers.
# At present, '''ATVs are not badged for their role as an ATV or issued NET PPE.''' Those policies may change in the future. There are also some exceptions. For example, BEECN ATVs and HAM radio operator ATVs are issued NET badges because they have blue skies roles that require special access. Otherwise, ATVs should either acquire their own PPE or arrange with their Team Leader to receive it from the team cache in the event of an activation.
# If deploying in the event of an earthquake, ATVs should follow the same [[Responsibilities Prior to Deployment|pre-deployment protocols]] that NET volunteers do.
<br/>
<br/>


== ATV Intake Process ==
=== Definitions ===
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 50%;"
|+
!Term
!Definition
|-
|Affiliated Team Volunteer (ATV)
|A volunteer who supports a NET team but does not hold full "Active NET" status.
|-
|Neighborhood Emergency Team (NET)
|A community-based group of volunteer disaster responders whose members are trained and certified by the Portland Bureau of Emergency Management.
|-
|[[Spontaneous Unaffiliated Volunteers (SUVs)|Spontaneous Unaffiliated Volunteer (SUV)]]
|People who help in disaster response/recovery without being part of a disaster relief organization. They often show up after a disaster, and they may not have formal training.
|-
|[[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|Volunteer Support Function (VSF)]]
|A defined disaster preparedness, response, or recovery role based on skills and interests.
|}
<br/>


=== For former Active NET volunteers ===
== Implementation Details ==
A NET volunteer may opt to downshift from Active NET status to ATV status. Many NET volunteers consider this move for personal reasons that impact their availability (e.g. don't have as much time as they used to, health concerns, etc). Going to ATV status is available as a medial point between full Active status and withdrawing from the program entirely. In this case, the volunteer can re-activate to full status at any point in the future.  
=== Access and General Expectations of ATVs ===
# ATVs are not indemnified by the City of Portland and are not officially deployed by the City.
# ATVs must adhere to the PBEM [[PBEM Volunteer Code of Conduct|Volunteer Code of Conduct]].
# ATVs are tracked in the PBEM volunteer database.
# ATVs must affiliate with a specific NET and appear on their team roster.
# ATVs are encouraged but not required to [[Portal FAQ|log volunteer hours]] and attend NET team meetings.
# ATVs must confirm their status (check in) with their Team Leader a minimum of twice annually. This can be done in as simple a method as sending the Team Leader an email to confirm they are still part of the team.
# ATVs declare a primary [[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|VSF]] and may declare a secondary role, with Team Leader approval.
# ATVs may access select advanced NET trainings if seats are available.
# ATVs are not issued NET personal protective equipment (PPE).
# ATVs are issued PBEM photo ID volunteer ID cards, similar to NET ID cards.
<br />


A NET wishing to move to ATV status should take the following actions:
=== ATV Intake Procedure ===
'''For former Active NET volunteers'''
# Inform the [https://pbem.link/net-team-map Team Leader] of your intention to transition to ATV status and declare a VSF.
# Notify PBEM via email ([mailto:net@portlandoregon.gov net@portlandoregon.gov]) for database updates.
# NET volunteers downshifting to ATV status may keep their NET-issued PPE (hard hat and vest).
# NET volunteers downshifting to ATV status do not need a revised ATV ID card until their NET ID card expires.
<br/>
'''For non-NET certified neighbors:'''
# Confirm with the [https://pbem.link/net-team-map local Team Leader] your interest in joining the roster and declare a VSF. The Team Leader must give their approval.
# Complete the online NET application ([https://app.betterimpact.com/Application?OrganizationGuid=5c003f3a-8d04-4cdf-b8c0-41627fea7871&ApplicationFormNumber=1 HERE]).
#* ATV applicants complete the NET application just as they would do if they were applying to NET.
#* After the application is completed, the ATV informs their Team Leader the application is ready.
#* The Team Leader reports the completed application to PBEM staff and ask to have the volunteer moved from "Applicant" to "ATV" status, and their assigned VSF(s).
# Undergo a [[Background Checks|criminal background check]] at no expense to the volunteer. The volunteer will receive an email from PBEM with additional information.
# Complete orientation to the team with the Team Leader. Orientation should include:
#: a. How to [[Portal FAQ|log volunteer hours]];
#: b. The NET's earthquake response framework and the ATV's role in it;
#: c. Team meeting schedule;
#: d. How to receive further training on their VSF of choice.
# The ATV is issued and mailed an ATV ID card from PBEM.
<br/>


# '''Inform the NET Team Leader:''' The NET should first inform their TL that they plan to downshift to ATV status and what their declared VSF will be. The change should be reflected in the TL's team roster and earthquake response framework.
== Compliance ==
# '''Inform PBEM:''' Next, the volunteer must email [mailto:Net@portlandoregon.gov net@portlandoregon.gov] to report the change in status and the declared VSF. PBEM will update the volunteer database accordingly.  
ATVs who do not respond to Team Leader communications may be removed from the roster and PBEM database. Volunteers who violate this policy or the [[PBEM Volunteer Code of Conduct|Code of Conduct]] may face dismissal from the program.
# If the volunteer wishes to return to Active status, they follow the steps above in reverse. Depending on the length of their absence from Active status, they may need a renewed [[Criminal Background|background check]] and ID, and possibly need refresher training.
<br/>
# They may retain their NET vest, hard hat, and ID if they wish. Otherwise, they should shred their ID and turn in their PPE to their Team Leader for storage in the Team's equipment cache.
<br/>
<br/>


=== For non-NET trained neighbors ===
== Related Information ==
NET volunteers often meet neighbors who want to be part of their NET's mission, but do not have the time and/or inclination to complete Basic NET Training. Having them sign up as an ATV is ideal in this situation. NETs will find these neighbors have specific skills or interests that correspond well to VSFs. For example, a medical professional who lives in the area is ideally suited to enlist under [[VSF 08: Medical & Mental Health|VSF 08]]. A neighbor who possesses a HAM license (or wants to get one) should enlist under [[Radio Communication Procedures|VSF 02]]. And so on. 
* [[PBEM Volunteer Code of Conduct|PBEM Code of Conduct]]
* [[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|Volunteer Support Function Directory (VSF)]]
* [[Background Checks|Criminal Background Policy]]
<br/>


Team Leaders should view these ATVs as opportunities to round out the skillsets available on their teams. More importantly, ATV policies allow Team Leaders to turn prospective SUVs into effective team resources.  
== Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ==
===== Q: How will ATVs be distinguished from SUVs in an activation? =====
''A: ATVs are issued PBEM volunteer photo ID card, similar to NET ID cards. No SUV will have a valid PBEM-issued ID.''


A new volunteer wishing to sign up as an ATV should take the following actions: 
===== Q: What roles/VSFs are suitable for ATVs? =====
 
''A: Roles with "No" in the "NET/CERT req?" column of the [[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|VSF Directory]] are appropriate for ATVs. Training requirements apply.
# '''Confirm with their Team Leader that they can join the local NET roster''' (look a TL up '''[https://pdx-net.maps.arcgis.com/home/index.html HERE]'''). They should work with their Team Leader to decide on a VSF, encourage them to prepare their household for a disaster, and share the team's earthquake response framework with them. The Team Leader should also identify what training the ATV will need in order to be successful in their VSF role.
# '''Complete the online ATV application [https://app.betterimpact.com/Application?OrganizationGuid=5c003f3a-8d04-4cdf-b8c0-41627fea7871&ApplicationFormNumber=1 HERE].''' They should use the form on the left side for a new application.
# '''Contact PBEM:''' Once the application is complete, the Team Leader (''not'' the ATV) should email [mailto:net@portlandoregon.gov net@portlandoregon.gov] and make PBEM staff aware of the application so that it can be adjusted to ATV status (otherwise, they'll remain in a status limbo). PBEM staff will send a reply confirming the activation of the ATV and their chosen VSF.
#'''Complete a criminal background check:''' ATVs are subject to [[Criminal Background|criminal background checks]] and follow the same policies as NET volunteers. As with NETs, this is done at no expense to the ATV, and PBEM will contact the ATV to complete the process.
#'''Team orientation:''' The ATV should expect an orientation to their team from the Team Leader. This may be done in the form of a one-on-one meeting or at a team meeting. Topics should include (but are not limited to):
#*The Team's Earthquake Response Framework and the ATV's place in it;
#*Information about optional team meetings;
#*[[Volunteer Hour Value|Why it's important]] to log hours;
#*How to get further training on their VSF of choice.
#'''Learn how to log hours (optional):''' The newly minted ATV will have a profile in the NET database. Though not required, we highly encourage ATVs to log any volunteer hours. Their Team Leader should instruct them on how to do that. There is also an instructional video '''[https://volunteerpdx.net/index.php/Volunteer_Hour_Value HERE]'''.
<br/>


== ATV Termination of Service ==
'''Q: How long may an ATV serve?'''
An ATV who has not responded to direct communications from their Team Leader will be assumed as terminating their service. They will be removed from the NET database and the team's roster.


Preferably, an ATV will inform their Team Leader and/or [mailto:net@portlandoregon.gov PBEM] that they intend to separate from the program and terminate their service. Once PBEM is informed, their volunteer record will be removed and they should expect all further communications from PBEM to cease. They may rejoin at any time, provided PBEM did not dismiss them from service.
''A: Just like NET volunteers, there is no limit on service. Every volunteer's background check and ID card must be renewed every three years.''<br />
<br/>
<br />
<br/>


== ATV Program History ==
== Program/Policy Background ==
"ATV" was first coined and suggested to Jeremy Van Keuren (PBEM) by NET volunteer David Given in July 2017. David worked with Boy Scout volunteers and requested a volunteer status that kept a non-NET disaster response volunteer "in the loop" of NET activities and encouraged forming a planning relationship with local teams.
"ATV" was first coined and suggested to Jeremy Van Keuren (PBEM) by NET volunteer David Given in July 2017. David worked with Boy Scout volunteers and requested a volunteer status that kept a non-NET disaster response volunteer "in the loop" of NET activities and encouraged forming a planning relationship with local teams.


Line 84: Line 150:
# '''It offers exiting NET volunteers an alternative to separating from the NET program completely.''' If a NET volunteer is unable to meet/uninterested in meeting their [[Minimum Service Contribution (MSC)|Minimum Service Contribution]] but would like to remain a part of their local team, they can do so as an ATV. ATV status is an alternative to making a NET volunteer "Inactive" and completely discharging them from the program.
# '''It offers exiting NET volunteers an alternative to separating from the NET program completely.''' If a NET volunteer is unable to meet/uninterested in meeting their [[Minimum Service Contribution (MSC)|Minimum Service Contribution]] but would like to remain a part of their local team, they can do so as an ATV. ATV status is an alternative to making a NET volunteer "Inactive" and completely discharging them from the program.
# '''It encourages''' '''non-NET neighbors to volunteer with their local NET team by giving them a status in the program.''' A neighbor may be interested in disaster response activities with their community and want to plan ahead, but do not have the time and/or inclination to complete Basic NET training. Becoming an ATV gives them a team role to fill by declaring a [[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|VSF]] (e.g. radio operator) and makes them more ready to participate with a NET team than a spontaneous volunteer (SUV) would be.
# '''It encourages''' '''non-NET neighbors to volunteer with their local NET team by giving them a status in the program.''' A neighbor may be interested in disaster response activities with their community and want to plan ahead, but do not have the time and/or inclination to complete Basic NET training. Becoming an ATV gives them a team role to fill by declaring a [[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|VSF]] (e.g. radio operator) and makes them more ready to participate with a NET team than a spontaneous volunteer (SUV) would be.
NET volunteer Kay Hilt provided suggestions to the policy that appear in this policy article.
<br/>
== ATV Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ==
===== Q: How will ATVs be distinguished from SUVs in an activation? =====
A: That will be up to a team's [[VSF 15.03.01: SUV Lead|SUV Coordinator]]. The SUV Coordinator should plan for receiving ATVs, and possibly through a pre-issued ID band or other device with the ATV's name on it.
===== Q: What roles/VSFs are suitable for ATVs? =====
A: Looking at the lists of [[Volunteer Support Functions Introduction and Directory|VSF position summaries]], note the column headed as '''"NET/CERT req?"'''. If "No" appears in the corresponding row, that indicates a position that may be suitable for an ATV. However, training requirements do apply.

Latest revision as of 11:28, 13 March 2025

Policy Summary: Affiliated Team Volunteers

Not all your neighbors need to be NET trained to participate in making a resilient community. Photo by Michael Hall (NET).

An Affiliated Team Volunteer ("ATV") is a volunteer who associates with and is assigned to a Neighborhood Emergency Team (NET) and is background checked, but does not possess full "Active" NET volunteer status. They are not deployed or indemnified by the City of Portland. They have a profile in the NET volunteer database, and may participate in non-deployment team activities with active NET volunteers.

Effective date March 25, 2024
Last revised March 1, 2025
Policy owner PBEM Community Preparedness Team
Author(s) Jeremy Van Keuren (PBEM); David Given (NET); Kay Hilt (NET).



Forms

Relevant Forms Updated
PBEM Volunteer Application


All neighbors have a role in disaster prep and response, not just NET trained neighbors!

Reason for Policy

The Affiliated Team Volunteer (ATV) program supports Neighborhood Emergency Teams (NET) by fostering neighborhood resilience and preparedness while addressing these needs:

  • Facilitating denser neighborhood social networks for NET teams.
  • Building relationships with neighbors who may become spontaneous volunteers (SUVs) in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
  • Providing a transitional status for active NET volunteers who wish to scale down their involvement without leaving the program entirely.
  • Volunteer managers are assured that ATVs who respond with a current ID have been background checked by PBEM and have at least one specific, deployable skill. This is in contrast to SUVs, who are not vetted before they arrive and offer to help, and must be interviewed to determine their most appropriate placement.


Policy Statement

Affiliated Team Volunteers (ATVs) are community members who support NET teams in their local areas but do not hold full "Active NET" status. ATVs are envisioned as supplemental resources for their NET's earthquake response framework and as contributors to overall community resilience. Although they are not deployed by the City of Portland nor indemnified, ATVs may participate in preparedness efforts to strengthen neighborhood readiness for emergencies and to improve general resilience, and in some training and other team activities.

Scope

This policy applies to:

  • NET volunteers transitioning to a reduced role as an ATV.
  • Community members who wish to assist NET teams without completing Basic NET training.
  • Neighborhood Emergency Teams and Team Leaders coordinating earthquake response.


Responsibilities

Portland Bureau of Emergency Management (PBEM)
Tracks ATVs in the volunteer database, ensures background checks, and communicates program updates.
Team Leaders
Maintain roster accuracy, guide ATVs in selecting Volunteer Support Functions (VSFs), and provide team orientations.
Affiliated Team Volunteers (ATVs)
Engage with their NET as outlined in this policy, adhere to the Code of Conduct, choose a VSF, and confirm status biannually.


Definitions

Term Definition
Affiliated Team Volunteer (ATV) A volunteer who supports a NET team but does not hold full "Active NET" status.
Neighborhood Emergency Team (NET) A community-based group of volunteer disaster responders whose members are trained and certified by the Portland Bureau of Emergency Management.
Spontaneous Unaffiliated Volunteer (SUV) People who help in disaster response/recovery without being part of a disaster relief organization. They often show up after a disaster, and they may not have formal training.
Volunteer Support Function (VSF) A defined disaster preparedness, response, or recovery role based on skills and interests.


Implementation Details

Access and General Expectations of ATVs

  1. ATVs are not indemnified by the City of Portland and are not officially deployed by the City.
  2. ATVs must adhere to the PBEM Volunteer Code of Conduct.
  3. ATVs are tracked in the PBEM volunteer database.
  4. ATVs must affiliate with a specific NET and appear on their team roster.
  5. ATVs are encouraged but not required to log volunteer hours and attend NET team meetings.
  6. ATVs must confirm their status (check in) with their Team Leader a minimum of twice annually. This can be done in as simple a method as sending the Team Leader an email to confirm they are still part of the team.
  7. ATVs declare a primary VSF and may declare a secondary role, with Team Leader approval.
  8. ATVs may access select advanced NET trainings if seats are available.
  9. ATVs are not issued NET personal protective equipment (PPE).
  10. ATVs are issued PBEM photo ID volunteer ID cards, similar to NET ID cards.


ATV Intake Procedure

For former Active NET volunteers

  1. Inform the Team Leader of your intention to transition to ATV status and declare a VSF.
  2. Notify PBEM via email (net@portlandoregon.gov) for database updates.
  3. NET volunteers downshifting to ATV status may keep their NET-issued PPE (hard hat and vest).
  4. NET volunteers downshifting to ATV status do not need a revised ATV ID card until their NET ID card expires.


For non-NET certified neighbors:

  1. Confirm with the local Team Leader your interest in joining the roster and declare a VSF. The Team Leader must give their approval.
  2. Complete the online NET application (HERE).
    • ATV applicants complete the NET application just as they would do if they were applying to NET.
    • After the application is completed, the ATV informs their Team Leader the application is ready.
    • The Team Leader reports the completed application to PBEM staff and ask to have the volunteer moved from "Applicant" to "ATV" status, and their assigned VSF(s).
  3. Undergo a criminal background check at no expense to the volunteer. The volunteer will receive an email from PBEM with additional information.
  4. Complete orientation to the team with the Team Leader. Orientation should include:
    a. How to log volunteer hours;
    b. The NET's earthquake response framework and the ATV's role in it;
    c. Team meeting schedule;
    d. How to receive further training on their VSF of choice.
  5. The ATV is issued and mailed an ATV ID card from PBEM.


Compliance

ATVs who do not respond to Team Leader communications may be removed from the roster and PBEM database. Volunteers who violate this policy or the Code of Conduct may face dismissal from the program.

Related Information


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How will ATVs be distinguished from SUVs in an activation?

A: ATVs are issued PBEM volunteer photo ID card, similar to NET ID cards. No SUV will have a valid PBEM-issued ID.

Q: What roles/VSFs are suitable for ATVs?

A: Roles with "No" in the "NET/CERT req?" column of the VSF Directory are appropriate for ATVs. Training requirements apply.

Q: How long may an ATV serve?

A: Just like NET volunteers, there is no limit on service. Every volunteer's background check and ID card must be renewed every three years.

Program/Policy Background

"ATV" was first coined and suggested to Jeremy Van Keuren (PBEM) by NET volunteer David Given in July 2017. David worked with Boy Scout volunteers and requested a volunteer status that kept a non-NET disaster response volunteer "in the loop" of NET activities and encouraged forming a planning relationship with local teams.

PBEM implemented the ATV status as a solution to two problems:

  1. It offers exiting NET volunteers an alternative to separating from the NET program completely. If a NET volunteer is unable to meet/uninterested in meeting their Minimum Service Contribution but would like to remain a part of their local team, they can do so as an ATV. ATV status is an alternative to making a NET volunteer "Inactive" and completely discharging them from the program.
  2. It encourages non-NET neighbors to volunteer with their local NET team by giving them a status in the program. A neighbor may be interested in disaster response activities with their community and want to plan ahead, but do not have the time and/or inclination to complete Basic NET training. Becoming an ATV gives them a team role to fill by declaring a VSF (e.g. radio operator) and makes them more ready to participate with a NET team than a spontaneous volunteer (SUV) would be.
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