About Us

This dynamic organization includes representatives from government agencies, utilities, academic institutions, and businesses of all types, nonprofits and faith agencies, as well as media, and elected officials. Together, we are the leaders and practitioners in Preparedness, Response, Recovery, Mitigation, and Protection in California; we're seasoned professionals, total novices and world class experts; and we are part-time, full-time, paid staff and volunteer -- yet we share common goals. Please join us!

The California Emergency Services Association (CESA) was founded in 1965 as a non-profit 501(c)(6) organization dedicated to the promotion of mutual support and cooperation across disciplines in preparing for natural and human caused disasters and public emergencies.

CESA provides and supports:

• Cultivating effective relationships, liaisons and partnerships
• Finding innovative solutions to today’s emergency management challenges
• Professional training, conference and workshop opportunities
• Evaluation, development, recommendation and implementation of administrative and operational plans, courses of action and procedures,
• Recognition of outstanding contributions to emergency management through our awards program,
• Working, in partnership, with the California Emergency Management Agency (CalEMA) and
• Legislative and procedural interpretation, input and changes at the State level.

In addition, CESA advocates for the emergency management profession in California. Increasing awareness of the roles and responsibilities of emergency managers and working with state and international organizations to formalize the profession are a high priority.

CESA is divided into three geographic Chapters – Inland, Coastal and Southern. By joining one of the Chapters, you automatically become a member of the statewide CESA. Each chapter has regularly scheduled Board meetings and holds informational seminars and training sessions throughout the year.

Our strength lies in our diversity of education and experience. We invite you to add your knowledge and expertise!

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