Frequently Asked Questions
Get the answers you need about joining, supporting, or working with FloridaOne.
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Since 1989, FloridaOne has been a team-driven organization built around the idea that everyday people can do extraordinary things during times of crisis. Whether you’re looking to join a team, volunteer, donate, or partner with us — this FAQ section covers the most common questions we receive.
What personal or professional experience will help me be an effective member of a FloridaOne team?
What personal or professional experience will help me be an effective member of a FloridaOne team? A: FloridaOne primarily draws team members from the ranks of those with current or prior experience in medical, law enforcement, fire, emergency, dispatch, disaster response, incident management, logistics and military operations.
What sort of training or certifications will I need to join one of the FloridaOne teams?
What sort of training or certifications will I need to join one of the FloridaOne teams? A: Training and certification requirements vary between teams. Prospective FL-1 DMAT team members must be certified in a medical position (e.g., physician, registered nurse, paramedic, physician’s assistant, etc.) prior to applying to the team as well as professionals in administration, logistics, safety and IT. If selected to one of the other teams, new members will be offered training to prepare them to work as a fully functioning team member.
Will FloridaOne provide any training that is required to be a team member?
FloridaOne provides ongoing training opportunities to its team members – internally and through its partnerships with other providers. In most cases, this training is offered free to members. In some cases, a member will need to pay a portion of the cost (i.e., tuition or travel expenses), depending on which entity provides the training.
How does FloridaOne ensure that each of its teams are proficient, current and available for mission assignments?
FloridaOne recruits team members with prior experience in first response, medical, incident management, and other disciplines who demonstrate a willingness to serve their fellow citizens. Ongoing training, exercises, and team deployments help ensure team member competence, team cohesion and effectiveness.
As a member of one of the Florida One, Inc. teams, will I be paid when I deploy on a team mission?
Payment of salary and/or travel expenses while deployed varies, depending on which team is deployed and which entity (i.e., federal, state, local or non-government organization) requests FloridaOne services.
If I join one of the Florida One, Inc. teams, is it mandatory that I deploy to every available mission?
As primarily a volunteer organization, FloridaOne recognizes that team members need to maintain a healthy volunteer/life relationship and will not be available for every team assignment offered.
Can I volunteer to assist Florida One?
Yes we accept volunteers for help with general light duty maintenance work, filing, warehouse, and other light duties. We also seek volunteers to assist during training exercises to play victims.
What is FloridaOne?
FloridaOne, Inc. is a nonprofit disaster response organization made up of dedicated teams of volunteers who support community preparedness, emergency response, and recovery missions across Florida. We are a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1989.
Who can join FloridaOne?
Anyone with a passion to serve their community is encouraged to apply. We welcome individuals with professional backgrounds in healthcare, logistics, emergency services, and also those without formal training who want to contribute through support roles.
What are the different teams within FloridaOne?
FloridaOne consists of specialized teams including medical response, logistics, planning, communications, and general support. Each team has unique roles during missions, and many rely on both credentialed professionals and trained volunteers.
What are the benefits of becoming a FloridaOne member?
Serve your community during disasters
Gain hands-on experience
Earn CEUs or CMEs
Access priority training opportunities
Build professional networks
Participate in local and statewide exercises
Personal fulfillment and team camaraderie
Can I volunteer without joining a team?
Yes. We also welcome volunteers for non-deployment roles including warehouse operations, facility maintenance, administrative support, and event assistance. These roles are vital to our operations.
How do donations help FloridaOne?
Donations fund critical needs like equipment, uniforms, training programs, facility improvements, mission travel, and public preparedness efforts. You can also designate donations for a specific team or purpose.
Is FloridaOne affiliated with the government?
No. FloridaOne is an independent nonprofit organization. However, we coordinate closely with local, state, and federal emergency management partners during deployments and preparedness activities.
What is FloridaOne’s relationship with the Emerald Coast Healthcare Coalition?
FloridaOne partners with ECHCC to expand training access, support mission deployment, and enhance preparedness across Northwest Florida. ECHCC also leases office space from FloridaOne and serves as a mission assignment conduit.
How do I become a FloridaOne sponsor or partner?
If you represent a business, foundation, or community group interested in supporting FloridaOne through funding, services, or equipment, visit our Sponsors + Partners page or contact us directly.
Is FloridaOne involved in the community outside of disasters?
Yes. In addition to disaster missions, FloridaOne hosts and participates in community events, public education programs, training workshops, and readiness exercises to strengthen local preparedness year-round.
What is the time commitment to be a member?
Time commitments vary by team and role. Some members are active during deployments or events, while others contribute year-round through training, logistics, or support functions. We’re flexible with your availability.
How do I get started?
Visit our Join page to learn more about team roles and how to apply. We recommend reading through the team descriptions and contacting us to begin the conversation.