Community Emergency Response Team

Making The Northern Neck Better Through Being Better Neighbors

CERT Mission:

“At Eastern VA C.E.R.T., we are neighbors helping neighbors. Our trained and equipped volunteers work alongside professional responders to preserve life, property, and safety—doing the greatest good for the greatest number of people during emergencies.” Our mission is to strengthen and safeguard our community by providing volunteers with the necessary training, resources, and support to respond effectively to disasters. Through our partnership with Lancaster County Emergency Services and other local agencies, we’re committed to reducing the impact of emergencies and ensuring the safety of all residents—two-legged and four-legged alike.

Who WE are.



Welcome to the Eastern Virginia Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.) and the
Community Animal Response Team (CART) – two dedicated groups of local volunteers
united by a shared mission: enhancing emergency preparedness and response within Lancaster County.


C.E.R.T. volunteers are your neighbors, trained and equipped to assist first responders in
managing and mitigating the effects of disasters and emergencies. Whether it's a natural disaster,
a public health crisis, or any other emergency, we are ready to help when you need it most.


CART supports pet owners by ensuring that their companion animals are safely evacuated,
transported, and sheltered during emergencies. We understand the deep bond between people and
their pets, and we are committed to making sure that during a crisis, both humans and animals
receive the care and attention they deserve.

What WE do.

Through training, education, and effective response during emergencies. We aim to empower citizens with the skills and knowledge needed to assist themselves and their neighbors in times of crisis, fostering a spirit of teamwork and collaboration.