Candler County EMA receives grant funding for brand-new CERT, non-paid volunteer program

CANDLER COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - The Candler County Emergency Management Agency recently received grant funding to build a brand-new Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

CERT is a non-paid volunteer program designed to directly support Candler County first responders, deputies, firefighters, EMS crews, and Special Response Teams on real calls for service.

This program helps train everyday citizens to be better prepared to respond to emergencies in their community. Members get specialized training in disaster response, traffic control, light search and rescue, storm support, basic medical care, and scene safety.

“The goal is not to replace first responders, but to provide them with a trained team of volunteers who can assist on scenes, expand capacity during large incidents, and step in when our community needs extra support. In disasters or emergencies, CERT ensures more hands are on deck so help reaches you and your family faster,” wrote the Candler County Sheriff’s Office in a social media post.

All CERT members must pass a criminal background check and driver history check before they are accepted into the program.

The grant, supported by GEMA/HS and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, will equip 10 members with uniforms, safety gear, and the tools.

“Initial training will begin in 2026 and will cover topics like disaster preparedness, supporting EMS on medical calls, traffic management at fire or crash scenes, assisting deputies during severe weather or missing person searches, and supporting SRT missions when additional hands are needed for safety and logistics,” wrote the sheriff’s office.

This effort is also a way to revive what was known as the First Responder Program in Candler County, which law enforcement said has faded away over the years.

Interested in volunteering? Click here.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to bring this program to life, and I believe it will be a tremendous benefit to both our first responders and our community as a whole. Please drop any questions you may have in the comments or give me a call at the office,” wrote Justin Wells, Director, Candler County Emergency Management Agency in a social media post.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Is this a paid position? → No, CERT is a volunteer program.
• What’s the age requirement? → 18 or older.
• What’s the commitment? → Training in 2026, then response and support as needed for emergencies or community events.
• Are background checks required? → Yes, for the safety and integrity of the program.