Berks County Search And Rescue, Inc.
Berks County Search and Rescue (BCSAR) stands as a beacon of community commitment, operating as a non-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity powered by dedicated volunteers and sustained solely through the generosity of local donations. Serving the residents of Berks and its neighboring counties, we are steadfast in our mission to conduct search and rescue operations while imparting essential wilderness safety education.
As Level 1 members of the Pennsylvania Search and Rescue Council, BCSAR holds a position of distinction and operates under comprehensive insurance coverage, encompassing auto, general liability, and workers’ compensation. This assurance underscores our unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of our members and the community.
Designated as “Company 2” by the Berks County Department of Emergency Services 911 system, the BCSAR team responds with precision to lost and missing persons search details. Our highly skilled team members undergo extensive training in diverse disciplines, including wilderness search and rescue methodologies, search management, evidence and crime scene preservation, sign cutting and tracking, aerial drone operations, and first aid and CPR. With a commitment to excellence, we stand ready to navigate the challenges of each mission, ensuring the safety of those we serve.
As an IBCCES Certified Autism Center, our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond certification — it’s ingrained in our approach. Our response vehicle is thoughtfully equipped with backpacks containing items tailored to provide comfort in stressful situations, specially packaged with the unique needs of individuals with autism in mind.
Our commitment to effective communication is exemplified by the use of ‘autism cards,’ invaluable tools that facilitate non-verbal communication for those who may find verbal expression challenging.
Actively participating in local autism community events and support groups, we cherish the opportunity to connect with autistic individuals and their families. These engagements are more than just providing emergency services; they are about fostering genuine connections and understanding within the autism community.
