United Way of Palm Beach County team members train alongside community partners at the Palm Beach County Emergency Operations Center.
United Way of Palm Beach County plays a critical role in helping our community prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. As Palm Beach County’s designated partner for volunteer and donation management during emergencies, we work closely with county officials, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to ensure resources are coordinated efficiently when disaster strikes.
Our Disaster Recovery team supports preparedness efforts year-round by providing training, resources, and guidance to nonprofits, businesses, and residents. Following a disaster, we mobilize volunteers, coordinate donations, and help connect community members with critical services and recovery resources.
On the first day of hurricane season, WPBF 25 News featured United Way of Palm Beach County President & CEO, Dr. Laurie George, to discuss how our organization supports residents before, during, and after a disaster. During the segment, Dr. George highlighted the importance of preparedness, available community resources, volunteer mobilization efforts, and United Way’s commitment to helping Palm Beach County recover and rebuild following a storm.
WPBF 25 News invited our team back for a special edition of ‘On the Record’ focused on storm preparedness and community resilience. Dr. George and Vice President of Special Initiatives & Grants Donna Pulda joined Palm Beach County Emergency Operations Center Director Mary Blakeney for an in-depth discussion on how residents can stay informed, build emergency preparedness kits, and take an active role in local response and recovery efforts.
The conversation also underscored the power of collaboration during a disaster. By serving as a trusted community partner and convener, United Way of Palm Beach County helps ensure response and recovery efforts are organized, efficient, and focused on meeting the needs of those most impacted.
Following a disaster, many community members want to help but may not know where to start. When requested by Palm Beach County Emergency Management, United Way of Palm Beach County activates and operates a Volunteer Reception Center (VRC).
The VRC serves as the central hub for coordinating volunteers and typically opens within 72 hours of a disaster. Volunteers are registered, screened, and matched with organizations and recovery projects based on community needs.
Through the VRC, United Way helps ensure volunteers are deployed safely, efficiently, and where they can make the greatest impact.
This coordinated approach helps maximize volunteer impact while supporting a safe and effective recovery process.
Disaster recovery takes a community effort. Volunteers play a vital role in helping neighbors recover after a storm or other emergency.
By becoming a disaster assistance volunteer, you can help support activities such as:
Complete the form below to join United Way of Palm Beach County’s Disaster Assistance Volunteer List. To learn more about disaster volunteer opportunities or to schedule a disaster preparedness presentation for your organization, please contact DisasterRelief@unitedwaypbc.org.
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Preparing before a disaster is one of the most effective ways organizations can protect their operations and continue serving the community when they are needed most.
United Way of Palm Beach County partners with Palm Beach County’s Long-Term Recovery Coalition and local emergency management professionals to provide disaster preparedness training for nonprofit organizations.
The most recent workshop, held in May 2026, featured information and resources from:
Topics included:
Click here to access the training recording. You will be prompted to enter the passcode after opening the video. Passcode: 2!HRWQjp
United Way and our community partners provide educational resources, training opportunities, and preparedness tools to help organizations and residents build resilience before a disaster occurs.
Community Resources
Disaster Preparedness Training Series
Disasters can happen at any time, but preparation makes all the difference. Through volunteer coordination, nonprofit training, community partnerships, and disaster recovery efforts, United Way of Palm Beach County is helping build a stronger, more resilient community.
Together, we can prepare for tomorrow, respond when it matters most, and support recovery every step of the way.
