County celebrates National Volunteer Week: Serve where it matters most

County celebrates National Volunteer week.

National Volunteer Week, observed each April, is a time to recognize and celebrate the individuals who generously dedicate their time and talents to serving their communities. For county agencies, including cultural institutions, public service departments and emergency services — this week is a vital opportunity to highlight the essential role volunteers play in supporting operations, enhancing services and building stronger community connections. Here are some meaningful ways to use your strengths for the good of your community:

A man on a boat, navigating through calm waters under a clear sky

Fire Corps: Support emergency operations

The Fire Corps program allows residents to serve alongside San Bernardino County Fire personnel in support-focused roles. Volunteers take on assignments such as rehabilitation operations, smoke alarm distribution, logistics, media support, shelter coordination and public outreach.

This work helps free up emergency responders to focus on urgent priorities while expanding service during large-scale incidents. Learn more by visiting sbcfire.org/firecorps.

Group photo of San Bernardino County Fire personnel, Office of Emergency Services and CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) volunteers standing in front of a red fire truck outside a modern government building. The CERT members are wearing green safety vests and helmets, while fire personnel are in navy uniforms. Everyone is smiling and posed together, highlighting community collaboration and emergency preparedness.

CERT: Build skills for local response

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) provides disaster readiness training and community outreach opportunities through the county Office of Emergency Services. Volunteers learn fire safety, medical triage, team coordination, and light search and rescue.

CERT members assist during emergencies and support preparedness programs before the next wildfire, flood or earthquake. Get involved by calling 909-356-3998 or emailing vssoes@oes.sbcounty.gov.

Two DBH volunteers smile behind a check-in table with event materials, ready to welcome guests and share resources.

Department of Behavioral Health: Service with impact

As the largest behavioral health system in California, the San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health is proud to serve the community and fully embraces the responsibility that comes with this role.

Volunteering with the department offers a unique opportunity to learn about mental health and substance use disorders through innovative, award-winning programs that reduce stigma and foster lifelong advocacy for recovery.

Volunteers gain meaningful experiences, valuable education and lasting connections. The program helps participants build essential skills to support their future career goals, including hands-on experience, resume development and professional networking. It’s an excellent foundation for those exploring a future career with the county.

With a Cradle to Career approach, the department introduces behavioral health awareness early in the educational journey—promoting mental wellness in schools and encouraging students to discover the many rewarding career paths within the behavioral health field.

If you’re passionate about making a positive impact and raising awareness in your community, we invite you to get involved. To request an application or learn more about the volunteer program, please email DBH-Volunteer@dbh.sbcounty.gov.

A museum volunteer smiles behind the biodiversity cart ready to welcome visitors and students to share educational material on regional mammals.

San Bernardino County Museum: Inspire future generations

Are you interested in history, art, science or culture? Do you want to give back to your community? San Bernardino County Museum is currently seeking new volunteers.

Volunteers support every department from assisting with visitor services and special events to helping with educational tours and doing research in the archives. Volunteers help create memorable experiences for our community and inspire the next generation of San Bernardino County history!

Become a volunteer today! Visit museum.sbcounty.gov/volunteer or contact Museum Educator Heather Hill at 909-798-8615.

National Volunteer Week not only honors these selfless contributions but also strengthens public awareness about the importance of volunteerism. It encourages continued civic participation, fosters pride in public service, and builds trust between county agencies and the communities they serve. Ultimately, it is a celebration of the powerful impact volunteers can have to help shape a stronger, safer San Bernardino County. Learn more, sign up and take the first step toward service today.

Additional County Update News – April 24, 2025