The CERT Auxiliary is a public benefit 501(c)(3) corporation formed to support the Santa Cruz County CERT Council and other disaster service organizations in managing, funding, and developing CERT programs and activities in Santa Cruz County. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area (e.g. earthquakes or fires) and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.