National Emergency Assistance (NEA)

Serving When Communities Need It Most

NEA trains and deploys experienced professionals to support FEMA during federally declared disasters, providing critical assistance when response and recovery efforts are underway.

Get Involved

What is National Emergency Assistance?

National Emergency Assistance supports TVA’s obligation under the Stafford Act by providing trained personnel who can assist federal disaster response efforts when communities face major emergencies.

Through NEA, retired and former TVA professionals and Federal agency employees are prepared to support FEMA in areas such as impacted municipalities, state entities, tribal communities, infrastructure recovery, operational coordination, and certain non-profits after a declared event.

These are paid deployment opportunities that allow experienced individuals to continue serving in meaningful ways during times of national need.

In addition to supporting disaster response, proceeds generated through NEA also contribute to BVI’s charitable mission, helping fund initiatives that support workforce development, education, community support and enrichment innovation, and disaster relief community organizations across the Tennessee Valley region.

Supporting Recovery When It Matters Most

NEA has provided trained personnel to assist with disaster response efforts across the country.

Helping communities recover from federally declared emergencies.

NEA Launches Historic Training Effort to Strengthen Disaster Recovery Readiness

NEA has kicked off a major workforce development initiative designed to prepare Program Delivery Managers (PDMGs) for FEMA’s evolving Public Assistance model.

Click the button below to read more.

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How to Get Involved with NEA

NEA recruits qualified professionals on a cyclical basis to prepare for future FEMA deployment needs. Participants receive training and maintain readiness to serve when federal disaster declarations require additional personnel.

These paid deployment opportunities are ideal for individuals who:

Have prior TVA or federal experience
Are interested in national service opportunities
Are retired professionals prepared for temporary deployment assignments
Want to contribute their expertise during times of crisis

When recruitment is open, qualified candidates may submit an application and resume for consideration. Our team reviews submissions and will contact selected candidates as deployment opportunities arise.

No Availability At This Time

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of NEA in disaster response?

NEA provides trained personnel to support FEMA during federally declared disasters, assisting with response and recovery efforts.

Who is eligible to participate in NEA deployments?

NEA recruits experienced professionals with prior TVA or federal agency experience who are prepared for temporary deployment assignments.

Are NEA deployments paid?

Yes, NEA deployments are paid assignments that allow participants to contribute their expertise during times of national need.

What types of work are performed during deployments?

Assignments may involve supporting impacted communities, assisting with infrastructure recovery, coordinating operations, and working with various agencies involved in disaster response.

How long do deployments typically last?

Deployment durations vary depending on the scope of the disaster and the needs of the response effort. A minimum commitment of 120 days is required.

What kind of preparation is required for NEA?

Participants may undergo training, background checks, and readiness preparation to ensure they are able to deploy when needed.

How often are deployment opportunities available?

Opportunities are based on federally declared disasters and may occur periodically throughout the year.

Are BVI and NEA the same?

No, but they are closely related. BVI began to represent TVA in the relationship with FEMA in 1989. In 2002, a separate non-profit organization was created to support FEMA for TVA. This organization is called National Emergency Assistance and continues to be managed by BVI.

Where can you be deployed?

All 50 states and five inhabited territories. The territories are American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and the US Virgin Islands.

How long has TVA been helping FEMA?

Since 1989.

Can anyone be an NEA employee?

No, only those that have been a direct employee of a Federal Agency or the US Military. Prior TVA employees are preferred.

Will I be a Volunteer or a paid employee?

A paid employee of NEA. You will earn a wage and be reimbursed for Travel Expenses while deployed.

Am I a Contractor or an Employee of NEA?

You are an employee.

Is Health Insurance or Retirement offered?

No. NEA offers a small monthly stipend toward reimbursement of health insurance. The program has IRS-regulated limitations, and you must qualify to receive this stipend. Currently, NEA does not offer a 401k program for employees.

Is training offered before I am deployed?

Yes, it is required. The course is a two-week class that teaches you the basics of FEMA regulations and policies, and hands-on practice with a simulation of the computer software program FEMA uses called Grants Manager.

How long will it take to get deployed?

The first deployment will take a while. The TVA adjudication process (background check) can take 6 to 9 months. Once that is complete, you can obtain a FEMA badge. In addition to the FEMA badge, you will have to have successfully passed the two-week PDMG class. Then it is a matter of waiting for a deployment that will accept Trainees.

Does NEA handle the Travel Arrangements?

No, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements for a deployment. Don’t use a Travel Agent or sites like Travelocity or TripAdvisor. Make your arrangements directly with the airlines, hotel, and rental car companies.

How do NEA deployments support BVI’s mission?

Revenue generated through NEA deployments helps fund charitable initiatives administered by BVI, supporting community programs across the Tennessee Valley.

Contact NEA

If you have questions about disaster deployment programs through NEA, our team is happy to help.