Lend a Hand with HelpSierraBreathe
A mask only helps when it gets into someone's hands. HelpSierraBreathe depends on volunteers throughout the Sierra Nevada and nearby metro areas to move N95 masks that final stretch — from donated boxes to the farmworker, the delivery driver, or the neighbor sleeping outdoors in the smoke.
Why Volunteers Matter to HelpSierraBreathe
When a wildfire breaks out, smoke conditions can shift in a matter of hours. Government agencies and big aid organizations often can't get N95 masks to the most vulnerable residents quickly enough. Our coalition partners already understand their own communities, and volunteers help them respond fast — collecting shipments, setting up distribution sites, and bringing masks straight to people who might otherwise be missed.
Volunteer Roles at HelpSierraBreathe
Distributing masks
Give out free N95 masks at community gatherings, food giveaways, shelters, bus stops, and job sites, and offer quick pointers on wearing a mask so it seals correctly.
Driving and deliveries
Transport boxes of masks from coalition partners to rural communities, shelters, and outreach locations — particularly where transportation options are scarce.
Outreach and language support
Help us connect with Spanish-speaking and other non-English-speaking communities, outdoor workers, and older adults, sharing smoke-safety information and where to find masks.
Organizing and logistics
Keep track of supplies, coordinate pickup locations, sign up local businesses willing to host masks, and keep other volunteers updated during smoke events.
Online and social media help
Post smoke alerts, distribution updates, and donation drives so news travels fast when air quality takes a turn.
How to Become a HelpSierraBreathe Volunteer
Get in touch through our contact page or message us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter . Let us know where you live and how you'd like to pitch in. Reach out to a coalition partner in your area, such as Washoe Basics , Reno/Sparks Mutual Aid , Rural Resistance Placerville or Mask Sonoma . Tell us when you're available. When fires are active we move fast, so the best way to reach you really counts.
Staying Safe as a HelpSierraBreathe Volunteer
Your health comes first. Wear a properly fitted N95 whenever you volunteer outdoors in smoke, rest indoors or in filtered air, stay hydrated, and step back if you have asthma, a heart or lung condition, or just aren't feeling well. Check current air quality on AirNow.gov before you head out, and never go into evacuation zones or areas closed by fire officials. Our wildfire smoke resources page offers more safety guidance.
Not able to volunteer in person? A donation to HelpSierraBreathe supplies the masks our volunteers give out.
Every role matters, whether you can give an afternoon or a whole season. Volunteers are the link between donated N95 masks and the people who need them most, and there is a place for you in distribution, delivery, outreach, or behind-the-scenes organizing.