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Operations

What we dobefore, during, and after

Proactive training and reactive deployment across Florida. Search and rescue, debris clearing, mobile command, and community preparedness under Incident Command System discipline.

Our Reactive Approach

We are on the front linesafter a disaster

We don't wait for a call. We are ready to deploy. We act as the tip of the spear, venturing into affected areas to provide immediate relief and support where it's needed most.

Our full mission overview

HelpNow search and rescue team standing in floodwater during a deployment

Search & Rescue

We perform search and rescue operations, navigating treacherous conditions to locate those in need, often with the support of our skilled K9 units, and facilitating safe evacuations.

Debris & Road Clearing

We provide debris and road clearing, utilizing specialized equipment including chainsaws and heavy machinery to clear paths and restore access to isolated communities.

HelpNow volunteers in tactical gear standing with a response vehicle and community EMS patrol RV

Mobile Command & Aid

We provide mobile command and aid. Our mobile command center can serve as a nerve center for search and rescue efforts or as an oasis for storm-ravaged community members.

Two generations of search and rescue volunteers in tactical gear and helmets

Prepare

Prevent

Our Proactive Approach

Preparing communities for the unpredictable

We equip individuals and organizations to become immediate responders. This foundational work reduces casualties, lessens the impact of events, and takes pressure off of our professional first responders.

AVERT® Active Violence Emergency Response Training
We empower civilians with the mindset and practical skills to react to active violence and apply critical “Stop the Bleed” techniques.
CPR / AED Certification
Hands-on training that gives people the power to save a life in a cardiac emergency.
Hurricane Preparedness Workshops
A comprehensive, step-by-step process to secure your family and property for the storm season.

View all courses

How You Can Help

Before disastervs after disaster

We believe that being prepared means being ready for anything. Our mission is two-fold: educate and prepare communities before disasters, and provide organized, effective response after disasters.

Proactive

Before disaster

We serve the community proactively by offering vital, no-cost training in disaster preparedness, active shooter response, and CPR/AED. This empowers everyday citizens to be part of the solution when every second counts.

CPR / AED and Stop the Bleed training
Hurricane preparedness workshops
AVERT active violence response
CERT coordination across Florida

Reactive

After disaster

When a disaster hits, our veteran-led teams are on the front lines. Our mobile command center is a self-sufficient hub in the field, allowing us to operate under ICS principles with efficiency and effectiveness.

Solar power system for off-grid operations
Starlink internet and emergency communications
Dedicated medical center for first aid and trauma care
On-site charging, food, water, and essential gear storage

Our Unique Advantage

We see thebig picture.

What sets us apart is our blend of expertise and our holistic approach to service. Our goal isn't just to respond to one disaster. We work to build a more resilient Florida for all.

About us

A Unified Force

Veterans, first responders, and trained volunteers operating as one disciplined team, not just a group of volunteers.

Incident Command System

We operate under the strict, organized principles of ICS, bringing professional methodology to every deployment.

Seamless Integration

Our self-sufficient mobile assets let us integrate directly with official entities like FEMA and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Voices From the Communities We Serve

They called. We showed up.

The radio equipment provided by Help Now during hurricane Milton to be able to stay informed during the storm was invaluable. Thank you Help Now!

Dax Lonetto

Clearwater, FL

The HelpNow team is truly inspiring! Their commitment and heart are evident in every effort. Whether it’s assisting local police and fire departments or helping families recover from disasters. Their impact on making Tampa a safer, more resilient community is undeniable. I’m grateful to support their mission and encourage others to get involved with this remarkable organization!

Luis Bernal

Resident, Fort Myers, FL

The Help Now organization is first rate and really is focused on not only helping the community in the event of a disaster, but educating them on how to better prepare and execute a plan that will keep them and their families safe. As a member of East Lake CERT I have personally interacted with Mike and could not be more impressed with the professionalism and credibility he and the Help Now Team bring to the table.

James Cerda

Tampa, FL

Mike and his team are excellent! Very helpful and during the most recent hurricane supplied radios that were programmed perfectly for information and communication. Recommend working with them!

Matt Vanvelsen

Port Charlotte, FL

Saturday’s CPR/AED class given by Claudia was a great educational experience — from proper training techniques to AED patch placement on adults and children. 43 years of firefighting and as a CERT/SAR/HelpNow responder, I’ll be looking for you.

Ron Lang

Palm Harbor, FL

Really difficult hurricane season and Mike and his team's radio equipment helped make it a bit easier to manage with constant real-time information about conditions, efforts, and damages.

Eric Bade

Concerned Citizen