Home
Archived Minutes
Administration
Operations
Training
Membership
Minutes
Sponsorship
Site Map
Gear Swap
Members Only
Links
Photos
| Membership |
New Member Process
Thank you, again, for your interest in the Wilderness Rescue Team. The process of joining the team is below. If it seems cold and bureaucratic, we apologize. Because you are protected by our team's insurance when you attend a training or callout, we have to do things this way. Our aim is also to be consistent with all new members.- Attend 3 meetings (it doesn't have to be 3 meetings in a row, so this could take a few months).
- Submit a signed Application and Medical Form. The Application and Medical Form may be downloaded below in both Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat formats. You may submit the Application and Medical Form at any time, but it won't matter until your third meeting.
Application: Microsoft Word format
Application: Adobe Acrobat format
Medical Form: Microsoft Word format
Mecical Form: Adobe Acrobat format
- At your third meeting the team must vote to make you a probationary member. The 3 meeting waiting period gives you a chance to check us out and see if the team is right for you and you have the time before you pay dues. Voting you on let's us document that you are now (legally) a member.
- A "probationary member" means you can do everything except hold office or be a team leader. You are expected to attend meetings and 50% of training. You must pay dues. You may vote and you may attend callouts (searches). The probationary period is for at least 6 months, but really depends on your involvement. A mentor will be assigned to you during this time. At the end of 6 months the team may vote to make you a regular (active) member. Obviously, if you haven't been able to attend trainings or meetings for the 6 months, your probationary period will last longer.
- Once you are voted on the team as an active member, you may also earn the "team patch." This usually takes about 1 year. You must demonstrate your ability in certain skills, i.e., map and compass, winter travel, etc. Our training schedule is set up so that you can get all the necessary training to earn the team patch within 1 year. This is the same as being a "team leader." The "patch" (which is a real patch you can wear), lets members of the warden service and other SAR teams know your level of training and that you can lead a team of searchers. So it really serves a purpose - its not just a warm and fuzzy. At this time you can also serve as an officer on the team.