Maryland VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster)

Maryland Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) is an umbrella organization that coordinates the response of  the diverse disaster response agencies in our state during disaster. Maryland VOAD includes faith-based organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGO), local non-profit agencies and government partners (state, county, municipal). We are the largest disaster response organization in the State of Maryland. Maryland VOAD is an affiliate of National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD).

Maryland VOAD creates the framework for our member agencies to coordinate, cooperate and collaborate–fostering effective response and recovery for the people of Maryland during times of disaster. We are a voice for the voiceless, the poor and those at the margins. We provide a safety net for all Marylanders during and after disasters. We mitigate and alleviate the impact of disasters on affected communities. We foster an effective delivery of services to communities affected by disaster. We respond during the initial emergency phase and relief stage to provide support to people and communities affected by disasters in our state. When significant damage has occurred in a community, we assist that community to stand up a long-term recovery committee, staff and provide resources and volunteers needed for the community to reach recovery. We often work in communities for 3 or more years.