Join Our Mission: Volunteer Opportunities with HMW-Network

Volunteering offers a unique chance to make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable experience and connections. At HMW-Network, we believe that every person has the power to contribute to positive change. If you are looking for meaningful ways to give back, grow your skills, and connect with like-minded individuals, this post will guide you through the exciting volunteer opportunities available with HMW-Network.

Why Volunteer with HMW-Network

Volunteering is more than just giving time; it’s about building relationships and creating impact. HMW-Network focuses on projects that educate and strengthen communities. When you join us, you become part of a team dedicated to Saving Lives!

Here are some reasons why volunteering with HMW-Network stands out:

• Meaningful Impact: Your efforts directly support our operations and community outreach programs.

• Skill Development: We provide training for aspiring Storm Chasers and Spotters and help members become certified Weather Spotters through the National Weather Service.

• Community Connection: We work closely with local communities building trust, educating and providing real-time severe weather Alerts, accurate forecast and more.

• Flexible Opportunities: Choose roles that fit your schedule and interests. We have many rolls to fill here across the network and our network owned regional organizations. Including Admin, social media, production, community outreach teams, public information, reporting, HR, Management and much more. Work at your own pace when you have time. Family and life always come first! You can help as little or as much as you want. No matter how many hours you dedicate to our mission you are taking on a direct roll to help in our life saving mission to save lives by working to increase severe weather warning led times using our growing network of storm chasers and weather spotters and through Severe Weather/Natural disaster preparedness and safety education programs.

  
  

Types of Volunteer Roles Available

HMW-Network offers a variety of volunteer roles to match different skills and preferences. Whether you prefer working outdoors, organizing events, or supporting behind the scenes, there is a place for you.

Community Outreach Volunteer

Help spread awareness about HMW-Network’s programs by engaging with local groups, distributing materials, and organizing educational sessions. This role is ideal for people who enjoy talking with others and building networks.

Volunteer Corps Supervisor and Recruiters

Work to recruit new volunteers for our organizations and supervising and assisting new members through the onboarding and training process. Working to make sure applications are sent out and that new members have proper documentation and certifications, conducting orientation and other task.

Public information officer

The public information officer is responsible for putting out important information in regards to our organization including issuing press releases and communications with other media agency's The PIO also directly supervises our social media team and makes sure the information we are releasing is accurate.

STEP Director of Training and Education

The DTE is the head of our in house staff training and education program "STEP" Staff Training and Education Program. They ensure that all new members receive and complete all required training within the time frame set in our policy and procedures. They also keep records of each members training. They are also responsible for all annual training and making sure all members complete their required annual training hours. They also verify all member certifications and issue training certificates for all in house training this includes advance first aid and Search and Rescue training. They register all new members for online training courses and ensure each member has completed all training required as part of the onboarding process.

Administrative Support HR

Provide essential help with data entry, communications, and office tasks. This behind-the-scenes role keeps HMW-Network running efficiently and is great for detail-oriented individuals. They work closely with the Volunteer Corps Director and recruiters to ensure that all required documents are completed and help maintain personnel files. They return calls and coordinate communications within our organization.

These are just a few of the rolls here at our organization we will discuss them all with you during the interview process which include Storm Chasers, Spotters and much more.

How to Get Started

Joining HMW-Network as a volunteer is straightforward. Follow these steps to begin your journey:

1. Visit the HMW-Network Website

   Explore the volunteer section to learn about current openings and requirements.

   
   

2. Complete the Volunteer Application

   Fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page under the about us section of the page.

   
   

3. Attend an Orientation Session

   Get to know the organization’s mission, policies, and your role responsibilities.

   
   

4. Compete an initial training

   Complete all your required initial Training and attain certifications if applicable.

   
   

What You Can Expect as a Volunteer

Volunteering with HMW-Network offers a supportive and rewarding environment. Here’s what you can expect:

• Training and Support

Receive guidance and resources to perform your role confidently.

• Recognition and Feedback

Your contributions will be acknowledged through events and certificates.

• Opportunities for Growth

Take on new challenges and leadership roles as you gain experience.

• Community Impact

See the tangible results of your work in the lives of people in your community.

Stories from Our Volunteers

HMW-Network volunteers often share how their experience changed their perspective and enriched their lives. For example, Sarah, a community outreach volunteer, says:

“Volunteering with HMW-Network helped me build confidence and meet amazing people. Knowing that my efforts support education programs makes every hour worthwhile.”

John, who joined as an county supervisor:

“Helping coordinate our team members in my area and maintain communications with chase teams and spotters in my area of operation is just a few of my duties. I know that my efforts help our team members operate safely and helps my community stay safe by helping get real-time weather information to communities in my area and to the NWS. I am so happy to play my small part in our big mission of saving lives”

Tips for Making the Most of Your Volunteer Experience

To get the best from your time with HMW-Network, consider these tips:

• Be Open to Learning

Embrace new skills and challenges with a positive attitude.

• Communicate Clearly

Keep in touch with coordinators and leadership.

• Commit Consistently

Regular participation helps build trust and deepen your impact.

• Share Your Experience

Encourage others to join by sharing your stories and successes.

How Volunteering Benefits You

Volunteering is a two-way street. While you help others, you also gain:

• New Skills

Improve communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

• Networking Opportunities

Connect with professionals, community leaders, and peers.

• Personal Fulfillment

Experience satisfaction from contributing to meaningful causes.

• Become a team leader

We promote from within. We recognize our hard working volunteers and before we try to fill leadership rolls from outside we offer advancement opportunities to our dedicated members.

Join Us Today

If you are ready to make a difference, HMW-Network welcomes you. Volunteering with us means being part of a community that cares and acts. Visit our website to find out more and apply.

Together, we can build strong storm-ready communities.

"The Hayes Media Weather Network, Keeping communities Safe, Informed & Ahead of the Storm"