Teen CERT

Teen CERT: Building the Next Generation of Community Leaders

At BRACE, we believe preparedness is more than a skill—it’s a legacy. Through our Teen Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, we are actively preparing the next generation to lead, serve, and respond when it matters most.

Teen CERT equips students with real-world, hands-on training in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Participants learn essential skills such as basic first aid, fire safety, search and rescue, team organization, and situational awareness—empowering them to act confidently in emergencies and support their families, schools, and communities.

But this program goes far beyond emergency response.

Preparing Future Leaders Through Training and Service

Teen CERT is shaping future leaders by combining education with purpose. Through structured training and meaningful volunteer opportunities, students develop:

  • Confidence under pressure

  • Leadership and teamwork skills

  • A strong sense of civic responsibility

  • A commitment to serving others

By engaging in volunteerism and real-world scenarios, students don’t just learn—they experience what it means to be the help until help arrives.

Opening Doors to Meaningful Careers

Teen CERT also serves as a gateway to career exploration. Students are introduced to pathways in:

  • Emergency Management

  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

  • Nursing and Healthcare

  • Fire Service and Public Safety

  • Law Enforcement and Homeland Security

By connecting training to career pathways, we are helping young people discover purpose-driven professions that strengthen our communities.

Proven Impact. Growing Reach.

The impact of Teen CERT in Escambia County has been significant—and growing:

  • 2025: 792 students graduated from the program

  • 2026: 786 students graduated, continuing strong engagement and success

Looking ahead, BRACE is expanding Teen CERT into Santa Rosa County, allowing us to reach even more students across Northwest Florida and further strengthen regional resilience.

Investing in the Future of Our Community

Every student trained through Teen CERT represents a stronger, safer future. These young leaders are not only prepared to respond in times of crisis—they are equipped to lead, serve, and make a lasting difference in their communities.

YOU can make a difference in our community by becoming a Teen CERT Member.

Meet our CERT Council

  • Dr. Sam Mathews

    Dr. Sam Mathews

    CERT INSTRUCTOR

  • Aldria Walker

    Aldria Walker

    CERT INSTRUCTOR

  • Capt. Bill Marvel

    Capt. Bill Marvel

    CERT INSTRUCTOR

  • Philip Switzer

    CERT INSTRUCTOR

Types of Trainings

Adult CERT

  • Designed for those wanting to increase their disaster preparedness

  • A consistent, nationwide approach to volunteer training and organization that professional responders can rely on during disaster situations, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks

Campus CERT

  • Designed for college campuses

  • Teaches all CERT fundamentals to faculty and students

  • Allows individuals to be prepared for campus events

Teen CERT

  • Designed for ages 13-17

  • Teaches youth readiness and response skills

  • Newly learned leadership skills will empower youth to safely respond to an emergency and assist victims without endangering themselves or others

Neighborhood CERT

  • Focusing on readiness and response in a localized area

  • Provide training so neighborhood’s can stand up on their own after a disaster until the professionals arrive