Join the Team
Membership opens July 1, 2027
Membership is a meaningful commitment to your community, your teammates and the people who depend on us. Applicants must be approved at both the local and state levels, and every application receives careful review.
Training alongside our Airlift NW partners.
The Commitment
More than a willingness to help
Joining Chelan County Volunteer Search and Rescue is a meaningful commitment to your community, your teammates and the people who depend on us. Membership requires more than a willingness to help. It takes time, dedication, physical fitness, familiarity with our local terrain, and a commitment to ongoing training and required certifications. Members are expected to maintain their skills, participate in team activities, and meet volunteer hour and response requirements to maintain active membership.
Just as important as experience and ability is character. We look for dependable, self-motivated individuals who value safety, act with integrity, communicate openly and put teamwork above personal ego. Search and rescue can be physically demanding, unpredictable and challenging, but for those who share our commitment to service, it is an opportunity to make a real difference as part of a team built on trust, preparation and respect.
Membership Requirements
- 18 years of age or older
- Physical fitness for demanding work in steep, rugged terrain and all weather
- Familiarity with local terrain in Chelan County
- Completed application, two references and an in-person interview
- ICS 100, ICS 700, CJIS and First Aid/CPR certifications
- Emergency Worker Registration, fingerprinting and a Chelan County Sheriff’s Office background check
- Ongoing training, with required certifications kept current
- Participation in team activities, including required training, meetings and events
- Meet volunteer hour and response requirements to maintain active membership
Our Core Values
Safety
The safety of our team and the public comes first.
Integrity
We act honestly and hold ourselves to a high standard.
Dependability
We show up prepared when the call comes.
Communication
We communicate openly, clearly and respectfully.
Teamwork
We put the team ahead of personal ego.
The path to membership
- ApplySubmit the CCVSAR application. The recruitment committee reviews it, contacts references and, if approved, schedules an in-person interview.
- InterviewA 45-minute, in-person interview with the recruitment committee. CCVSAR then provides the applicant’s information to the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office.
- QualifyApproved candidates complete the required courses and certifications, the Emergency Worker Registration and fingerprinting. CCVSAR provides details and resources.
- ApprovalMembership is confirmed once all certifications are complete and the background check is approved.
- On-boardingNew members are paired with a mentor and begin attending required training, meetings and events.
Applications are closed until July 1, 2027.CCVSAR is not accepting new members at this time. Applications reopen on July 1, 2027. Prospective members are welcome to attend a general meeting in the meantime to meet the team and learn how we operate. General meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 PM at Chelan County Emergency Management, 425 Ohme Garden Rd, Wenatchee, WA 98801. For other questions, email info@ccvsar.org. Please do not begin any required courses until you have completed the interview process.
