GATERS: Youth Volunteers in Action
As a team in southern Wisconsin, we provide emergency rescue and services through trained teen volunteers dedicated to helping communities during disasters and preserving our natural environment. We make the outdoors better!
Empowering Youth for Service
Dedicated to Emergency Response
Our team is positioned to be the official Teen CERT (Community Emergency Response Team). We are trained and prepared for natural disasters while promoting environmental stewardship through various initiatives. We make the outdoors safer!
The mission goes beyond the rescue.
Conservation service and disaster assistance are key parts of a GATER's commitment. Our goal is to make the outside safer for everyone.
Disaster Response Team
Our team is equipped to handle natural disasters like floods, wildfires, and tornadoes effectively.
Conservation Efforts
We assist with trail maintenance, restoration, forestry, and flood prep to protect and repair our environment.
Frequently asked questions
What does GATERS mean?
GATERS: Giving Aid Through Emergency Rescue and Service. They (gaiters) are also cool items to wear on hikes and are also important neck warmers.
How does one join GATERS?
It's easy to join! Simply fill out the application and go to one of our community meetings.. You will be given more forms to fill out at your first meeting. Meetings are once per month and there is usually one training offered per month.
How much does it cost to be a GATER?
Joining is Free! Official training exercises require an additional fee to pay for the instructor and insurance, and they range from $25 to $100. We try to get discounts on gear and clothing, but those are purchased by each member individually.
Do members have to be 'on-call'?
Yes and No. Going on rescues, disaster missions, or training operations is completely voluntary but expected if one is able. Members who have passed required training programs will be expected to go on missions and other exercises.
What prerequisites and experiences are needed to join?
You need to be ages 13-19 to join. There is NO other experience necessary or required. It would be helpful if volunteers were in relatively good shape and capable of spending extended periods of time on hikes and in the outdoors.
Our Next Meeting
GATERS is an organized volunteer network of teens in and around Dane County Wisconsin age 13-20 who are trained in search and rescue skills, disaster assistance, and conservation. Our next meeting (open to everyone) is March 4, 2025 at 6pm.
Next Meeting Location:
Oregon Fire Department, Oregon, Wisconsin
Hours
6:00 to 8:00 pm
