Skip to main content
HomeVoluntary Agencies

COVOAD Logo

COVOAD falls under the umbrella of the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (NVOAD). NVOAD was formed in 1970 when it was acknowledged that the voluntary agencies’ response following Hurricane Camille (1969) was fragmented and uncoordinated. Thereafter, particularly in response to Hurricane Andrew in the early 1990s, state VOADs began forming throughout the U.S. to support state and regional needs.

COVOAD works to support its membership by facilitating planning and coordination efforts among response and recovery voluntary agencies. By working together before disasters strike, COVOAD member agencies are better positioned to provide more effective services and minimize duplication. 

The core of COVOAD’s success is its commitment to facilitate and enhance what is known as the ‘4 Cs’: communication, coordination, cooperation, and collaboration.

 
CEMA Membership:  COVOAD volunteers are eligible for a discounted CEMA membership of $10 per year.  You receive all the benefits of membership, plus a VOAD-specific discussion forum and email list, designed to help with cross-organization communications and support.  Click the "Join CEMA Now" button to see all the benefits of membership.