There is no time commitment required to join the team. Sign up, and we'll get you out in the field when you're available and good n' ready. The time commitment required to deploy on an operation varies based on where you live in relation to the disaster zone for domestic operations—anywhere from one day to eight days when flights are required. International operations are, typically, a minimum of two consecutive weeks.

Nope. While roughly 70% of our volunteer base consists of veterans and active duty military, anyone is welcome to join the Team so long as you're willing to serve those in need. We'll train you up so you're ready for whatever Mother Nature tosses at us.

Yes, absolutely. There are many roles in disaster response, many of which are perfectly suited for anyone with physical limitations. We only ask that you know your own limitations.

Each disaster is its own unique situation, and TR will always tailor its response in order to help people affected by a disaster who need us most. While many of our operations address gaps in aid immediately after a disaster, Team Rubicon also launches efforts proactively. For example, mitigation operations that help prevent disaster and can be planned months in advance.

Our background check exists to ensure a safe operating environment for our members and the communities we serve. We are not interested in speeding tickets or misdemeanors.

Any Team Rubicon member who has completed his or her volunteer profile and the initial online training steps is eligible for deployment. Some missions will require a specialized set of skills or geographic proximity to the disaster zone. When Team Rubicon deploys, TR Staff and the incident commander work to ensure the teams on the ground are properly equipped and prepared for the situation. International missions usually require a specialized skill set and a valid passport.

It depends on the needs of the community, country, and situation on the ground where we're serving. Basically, there's not a straightforward answer because all disaster and crisis response operations are unique. Although most of our international efforts are medical responses, we have also deployed Greyshirt members without medical qualifications in the wake of disasters, such as to The Bahamas in 2019 following Hurricane Dorian.

When an operation is approved, a notification will be sent out to members within a 450-mile radius of the incident (so make sure your address is accurate in your Roll Call profile). The notification is first sent via email. For many operations, the opportunity to deploy (link to register) will be shared across localized TR social media channels/groups under your TR Branch (North, South, or West). You can also search operations and events under "Calendar" in your Roll Call portal.

Team Rubicon goes to great lengths to make sure that volunteers don’t incur expenses while on operations. When a volunteer is activated through official channels, their transportation, meals, and lodging are paid for. Team Rubicon will also provide the necessary equipment and supplies. However, Greyshirt members must bring their own personal gear (good work boots, proper clothing, travel bag, sleeping bag, personal hygiene kit, etc).

No. Period. If you have a concealed carry permit, the answer is still NO.

Stop right there. Do not self-deploy under any circumstance. We know you're eager to get there and help those facing their worst fears, we know because we're built the same way. To deploy, knock out the deployment requirements and register your availability. If you raise your hand to help, we'll call on you.

At Team Rubicon, we have a saying: "Earn your shirt." This means you'll receive a grey shirt(s) when you arrive on your first deployment whether it's a service project, mitigation, or response operation.

Yes. The furrier, the merrier!

Team Rubicon no longer requires Greyshirt members to complete ICS courses to deploy, but they are encouraged and still required for leadership roles. If you are stepping into a leadership position: ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 may be required. If you want to be on the Command and General Staff for an operation, you'll also need to complete ICS 300 and 400.