For anyone with a News Year's resolution that includes finding a meaningful volunteer position, they may find a perfect fit with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard, and is actively seeking more volunteers interested in serving their country and their community.
The Coast Guard's philosophy is "ready for today...preparing for tomorrow" against all threats and all hazards. The role of the Coast Guard Auxiliary is to be a 'force multiplier" for the Coast Guard.
Admiral Thad Allan, Commandant of the Coast Guard, has frequently stated that the Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of Team Coast Guard. The Auxiliary participates in all Coast Guard missions authorized by Congress, with the exception of direct law enforcement and military action.
"What would I do as a volunteer in the Coast Guard Auxiliary?" you ask. There are many places where you can make a difference. The Auxiliary conducts missions on the water, in the air, and on land. They conduct safety patrols and search and rescue missions on our waterways, assist the Coast Guard with homeland security duties, teach boating safety classes, conduct free vessel safety checks for the public, as well as many other activities. They are also seeking those individuals who want to contribute their talents in the areas of web design, information technology, public affairs, and in many other administrative roles.
Training opportunities (most of which are free) include boat crew and coxswain (small boat operator), vessel examiner, boating safety class instructor, public affairs, and many others. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, at least 17 years old, and pass a basic background check. There are no upper age limits or height/weight standards (although for boat crew, you must be able to perform certain tasks). There are no minimum service hours-you can serve as little or as much as you want.
For more information or to become a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, call 1-877-875-6296, or visit www.join.cgaux.org .