Join Us!

Our team appreciates our volunteers for their diverse skills. Whether they are in the field, provide data entry, maintain the equipment in our hall, or help promote CVSAR within the community, their time and energy invested in the team is truly valued. We rely on our volunteers to attend call outs on short notice and know that not everyone is available 24/7. In order for our team to provide sufficient service within our coverage area, we require a strong volunteer base that is aligned with CVSAR’s mission and exemplifies its values.

CVSAR offers training three times a month from 1830 hours – 2100 hours on Wednesdays and the occasional weekend. To become an active member, applicants must first complete the 100 hour Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) training. This is offered when CVSAR has the need and capacity to facilitate the program.

Members in the field can expect to experience tasks that include small scale searches in both urban and wilderness environments, embankments with/without high angle rope rescues, swiftwater rescues, body recoveries, and searches on lakes, rivers and mountains in avalanche terrain. In addition, the team maintains a presence in the community to support public safety and education.

Although CVSAR provides most of the specialized technical equipment, members are expected to equip themselves with appropriate clothing, footwear and personal items.

We currently have 4 types of active membership:

Member in Training: Probationary active member enrolled in a GSAR course who is working on becoming a Full Member upon completion of the GSAR course and other applicable obligations.

Full Member: GSAR trained active member meeting outlined obligations as per the Membership Policy #001 that are necessary to have an effective Search and Rescue Group. These obligations include: GSAR course completion, first aid certified, attending general/specialty practices, tasks and community events, involvement with at least one standing committee, acting as an ambassador for CVSAR in the community, and displaying conduct in line with the values and mission of CVSAR.

Non-Operational Support Member: Non-GSAR trained active member who contributes to the objectives and goals of the society and is not required to participate in tasks and training. Obligations include: attending community events, being involved in at least one standing committee, acting as an ambassador of CVSAR in the community, and displaying conduct in line with the values and mission of CVSAR.

Operational Support Member: Active member who provides a specific skill set (ex. GIS Technician, CAA Level 2, Accountant) that contributes to the goals and objectives of the society. Obligations include: first aid certified (within capacity), acting as an ambassador of CVSAR in the community and displaying conduct in line with the values and mission of CVSAR.

1. contact CVSAR with an expression of interest – membership@columbiavalleysar.ca
2. complete and submit an application form with a resume and references
3. attend an information night when offered
4. applications are reviewed and references called by the Membership Committee.
5. they make their recommendations and present to the Board of Directors for approval
6. successful applicants will be asked to provide a criminal record check and any relevant training certificates for courses they have listed on their application form
7. all applicants will be notified of the final decision