About us
Beacon Mid-Atlantic is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides emergency communications to communities hit by disaster. We bridge the gap between the moment a disaster strikes and the moment normal communications are restored.
Mission
We keep first responders, emergency coordination centers and relief organizations connected when hurricanes, floods or damaged infrastructure take normal networks down.
We don't just hand over equipment. We bring the radios, along with the trained people and the plans to put them to work.
How we started
Beacon was started by public safety professionals and radio communications experts. They saw that in a major disaster, the last mile of communication is often the first to break.
Federal and state resources are powerful, but they take time to arrive. Beacon is built to set up lightweight, independent equipment within hours of an event, during the first phase of the response.
We also put a special focus on VOADs, the voluntary organizations that run shelters, feed people and lead long-term recovery. Their communications matter just as much as anyone's in a disaster.
How we work
Fast
Our equipment is pre-packed in cases, battery powered and ready to move, so a team can load up and head out as soon as we're requested.
Independent
We don't depend on the grid, cell networks or the internet. Solar and battery power keep our systems running through long operations.
Integrated
We deploy at the request of local authorities and partner organizations and work within their Incident Command System. Our members are trained in NIMS and ICS, so they fit in from the start.
Our team
Our members come from engineering, public safety and emergency management backgrounds. They train year-round on equipment, procedures and exercises, so they're ready when a call comes.
Every member goes through an application, an interview and a background check before joining.
- Field commsDeploys to forward operating bases, shelters and command posts to set up and run radio and phone systems.
- Technical supportHandles IT, IP phone systems and radio programming, and keeps our equipment ready between deployments.
- LogisticsMoves equipment and critical supplies to where they're needed and keeps field teams supplied.
Work with us
Call or email about agency support, partnerships or membership.