A volunteer search organization in Alaska says it continues to face challenges when communities request help locating missing people, citing gaps in the state’s assistance system that often delay or prevent an official response.
According to the group, villages and rural communities contact them several times a year seeking help with searches. However, volunteers must direct families and local leaders to go through official channels before they can deploy. This process is necessary to secure transportation support, reimbursement for operational costs, and coverage for personnel and equipment.
But in many cases, communities later report that assistance has still not arrived, leaving search teams unable to respond despite having the skills and equipment needed.
The organization says the barrier is not willingness, but funding. Without state activation, they cannot afford to travel to remote locations, transport specialized equipment, or maintain operational safety standards.
When they are activated, search teams emphasize that they do not take over local searches unless specifically asked. Instead, they provide technical expertise, advanced equipment, and trained personnel to support community-led efforts. Volunteers meet with local residents and elders, study terrain and historical data, and recommend safe search strategies tailored to conditions on the ground.
Where possible, community members are invited to assist in recovery efforts, which the group says is an important part of healing and closure.
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Volunteers also note that their time on-site is often limited, as many members must return to work, families, or other missions awaiting support elsewhere.
The organization hopes raising awareness will encourage improvements to the statewide response process, allowing rural communities faster access to lifesaving search resources and giving volunteer teams the ability to assist more often.
News Source: Alaska Dive Search Rescue and Recovery Team
