Mission Statement

Self • Family • Community

California Prepared is a community of individuals committed to preparedness, resilience, and service. Our mission is built on three foundational pillars:

  1. Self — Personal readiness is essential to supporting others. Members are encouraged to pursue physical, mental, and practical preparedness through continuous learning and self-improvement.
  2. Family — We prioritize the safety and well-being of our families by developing skills that promote stability, security, and self-reliance. These skills include emergency preparedness, first aid, communication, and survival readiness.
  3. Community — We believe in strengthening our local communities through service, cooperation, and lawful action. By working with local resources and supporting one another, we aim to foster resilience and preparedness at the community level.

Confidence through capability. Capability through preparation.

About Us

California Prepared is a community-based preparedness organization focused on readiness, skills, and mutual support. We are not driven by fear or politics; our purpose is to equip individuals and families with practical knowledge and reliable networks to better handle everyday challenges and unexpected emergencies.

We emphasize hands-on training, emergency planning, outdoor skills, communication, and first aid while fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive environment. Members range from beginners to experienced practitioners, all united by a shared commitment to preparedness and lawful conduct.

All activities of California Prepared are conducted in accordance with local, state, and federal law.

Leadership Structure and Duties

Leadership roles within California Prepared exist to support, coordinate, and serve the membership. Leaders do not command authority beyond the responsibilities defined in these bylaws.

To avoid conflicts of interest, individuals holding leadership or representative roles within the organization may not simultaneously hold leadership positions in organizations that pursue directly competing missions or activities. General membership in other preparedness or civic organizations is not prohibited.

State Lead

  • Oversees statewide operations, communications platforms, and organizational coordination
  • Provides guidance and support to Regional Representatives and State Leadership
  • Ensures adherence to Bylaws and organizational standards

Regional Representatives

  • Oversee activities within their assigned region
  • Support members, trainers, and local events
  • Assist the State Lead as needed (No more than three Regional Representatives may serve at one time.)

State Training Advisor

  • Develops and maintains a foundational training framework
  • Coordinates statewide training efforts
  • Supports Local Trainers and ensures consistency of instruction

State Vetting Officer

  • Reviews membership applications and questionnaires
  • Coordinates background reviews as appropriate
  • Performs additional duties as assigned by the State Lead

Local Trainers

  • Conduct and organize training within their areas of expertise
  • Coordinate with the State Training Advisor
  • Maintain appropriate certifications or documented experience when applicable

Trusted Members

Trusted Members are appointed individuals who have demonstrated consistent participation, sound judgment, reliability, and commitment to the organization. Trusted Members support training, vetting, and mentorship activities and are approved by the State Lead.

Leadership Elections

The State Lead shall be elected by a majority vote of all members for a two-year term. Elections are held on June 10th. A State Lead may serve two consecutive terms. A third term may be served only after another individual has completed a full term.

If the State Lead steps down due to incapacity, delinquency of duty, or impeachment, an emergency vote shall be held to appoint a Regional Representative to complete the remaining term. Serving more than one year of a partial term counts as a full term.

All other State Leadership positions are elected annually by majority vote and are subject to a three-term limit per position. Emergency elections follow the same process when vacancies occur.

Trusted Members may be nominated by any member but are appointed solely by the State Lead.

Order of Succession

In the event of the State Lead’s death or incapacitation, the Regional Representatives shall collectively assume interim responsibilities until an emergency election is held.

Communications

Primary organizational communication occurs through the State Telegram chat. Secondary communication may include radio systems operating within High Frequency (HF), Very High Frequency (VHF), and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) bands.

Members are responsible for complying with all FCC rules and licensing requirements when operating radio equipment.

Prospect communication channels and public social media platforms are limited to non-sensitive information.

Video Conferences

The State Lead hosts a monthly video conference on the first Thursday of each month. Regional Representatives host rotating video conferences on the third Thursday of each month.

The meeting host may request cameras be enabled when sensitive information is discussed, subject to reasonable accommodation.

Age Requirements

Membership is limited to individuals 18 years of age or older.

Minors may attend non-training events such as meet-and-greets or community outreach functions. Minors of appropriate age may attend training events at the discretion of the Training Officer, must be supervised by a parent or legal guardian, and must comply with all applicable safety and consent requirements.

Criminal History Considerations

Members with felony convictions are encouraged to pursue expungement or dismissal when legally available. Until such matters are resolved, affected members may not hold leadership roles, attend live-fire activities, represent the organization publicly, or engage in restricted training.

Members are responsible for understanding and complying with all legal restrictions applicable to them.

Recruiting

Recruitment should be conducted respectfully and responsibly. Members are encouraged to invite individuals they trust and whose beliefs align with the organization’s values.

Recruitment materials may include business cards, pamphlets, and flyers approved by leadership. Quality, integrity, and positive representation of the organization are priorities.

Vetting Process

Prospective members must complete the following steps:

  • Submit a complete and honest questionnaire
  • Review the bylaws and standard operating procedures
  • Complete a face-to-face meeting with a Trusted Member
  • Attend at least one training event or a second face-to-face meeting with a separate Trusted Member
  • Remain active in the prospect communication channel

The vetting process lasts a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of 90 days. Final acceptance is determined by the State Lead, State Vetting Officer, and involved Trusted Members.

Member Code of Conduct

Members are expected to act with integrity, professionalism, and respect. Conduct subject to disciplinary action includes, but is not limited to:

  • Harassment, threats, or physical aggression
  • Discrimination or racism
  • Dishonesty during the vetting process
  • Undermining or defaming the organization
  • Inappropriate content or solicitation
  • Violations of law or safety standards

Disciplinary actions may include warnings, suspension, or removal, depending on severity.

Events and Training

Events and training strengthen trust and preparedness at the local level. Instructions may be provided by qualified members or certified trainers when applicable. Members are encouraged to share skills responsibly.

Participation in events is encouraged but not mandatory. Members with physical limitations or disabilities are welcomed and valued for their contributions.

Training Focus Areas

Members are encouraged to pursue proficiency in:

  • Firearm safety and marksmanship (when lawful)
  • Emergency medical and first aid skills
  • Communication and radio operations
  • Land navigation and GPS use
  • Physical preparedness

Amendments

These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the membership. Proposed amendments must be distributed to members at least 14 days prior to voting. Unauthorized attempts to alter the bylaws are grounds for removal.

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