Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers and ways to connect.
General FAQs
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We’d love to hear from you.
You can reach our team by emailing info@christinaction.com, calling 703-368-6286, or using the contact form on our website.
No matter how you reach out, we’ll make sure your message gets to the right person.
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We focus on immediate disaster recovery and emotional and spiritual care — clearing debris, gutting homes, removing damaged materials, and offering prayer and chaplain support. Our goal is to help families take the first steps toward recovery and bring hope when it’s needed most.
Through our Furnishing Hope initiative, we also support long-term recovery by providing families with essential furniture and appliances, helping them rebuild stability and restore a sense of home after crisis.
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Christ In Action primarily deploys across the United States, responding wherever disasters strike and communities are in need. We also serve internationally when called upon, partnering with local ministries and response organizations to bring hope and relief around the world.
Every deployment is coordinated closely with local municipalities, emergency management teams, and community leaders to ensure our presence is both needed and helpful. At times, we may delay deployment until recovery efforts are ready for volunteers to enter safely. Each response is prayerfully considered to ensure our teams serve where the need is greatest and our presence will make the most impact.
Whether stateside or abroad, our heart remains the same: to bring the love of Christ to those in crisis — physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
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Churches, businesses, and community groups play a vital role in helping us serve families in crisis.
You can partner with Christ In Action by hosting a Faith-Based First Responders (FBFR) Training or a Disaster Preparedness Seminar in your area — these events equip volunteers and strengthen community readiness before disaster strikes.
To host successfully, we typically need at least 30 people for a Disaster Preparedness Seminar (DPS) or 50 for an Awareness in Crisis (AIC) training.
Your group can also take part in a Disaster Relief Mission Trip, joining us in the field to serve those recovering after disaster.
To learn more or request a training or deployment, email us at info@christinaction.com or call 703-368-6286.
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There are many ways to make a difference — and every role matters.
You can volunteer your time during a deployment or at our headquarters, give financially to support relief efforts, or pray for the families and communities we serve. Each act of service helps bring comfort, care, and the love of Christ to those in crisis.
If you’d like to go deeper, consider attending a Faith-Based First Responders (FBFR) Training to learn how to serve safely and effectively. These courses prepare you to respond in your community and alongside our teams in the field. After completing all three levels, you may also apply to become a Christ In Action Chaplain, providing emotional and spiritual care when it’s needed most.
To learn more about upcoming trainings or opportunities to serve, please fill out our contact form and let us know what you’re interested in.
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There are always ways to serve — even when we’re not deployed to a disaster site.
You can volunteer at our Headquarters in Virginia, where teams help maintain equipment, prepare supplies, and keep us ready to respond at a moment’s notice. Many churches and groups also plan service trips to Headquarters throughout the year.
To learn more or plan your visit, visit our Volunteer page.
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Each ministry area has its own FAQ section where you can learn more:
Deployment FAQs – Serving on a disaster site
Chaplaincy FAQs – Becoming or serving as a CIA Chaplain
Training FAQs – Courses, schedules, and requirements
Giving FAQs – Ways to give and how your donation helps
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Your trust matters to us.
Christ In Action is committed to protecting your personal information and keeping it secure. We never sell or share your data with outside organizations. Any information you provide is stored safely and used only for ministry-related purposes such as training updates, deployment notices, and newsletters.
You can update your communication preferences or unsubscribe from emails at any time using the links provided in our messages.
If you have questions about how your information is used, please contact us.
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Yes. Christ In Action is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, supported by donations from individuals, churches, and partners who share our mission to bring the love of Christ to those in crisis.
Still have questions? Contact Christ In Action →
Giving & Stewardship FAQs
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We’re so grateful for every partner who helps bring the hope of Jesus to families in crisis. Monthly giving provides steady support that allows us to respond quickly when disaster strikes.
You can set up your recurring gift in several ways:
Through your bank’s online bill-pay service. This method has no fees for you or for us, and payments are sent automatically on the schedule you choose.
By setting up a recurring donation on our website using an e-check (ACH transfer) or credit/debit card. Giving directly from your bank account (ACH transfer) has the lowest processing fees and means more of your gift goes directly to relief efforts. It also removes the worry of expiring credit cards or potential card fraud.
By mailing a check each month if you prefer to give by mail.
If you use a credit card, please do so only if it doesn’t create or add to debt.
To begin, visit our Donate page and select the “Donate Monthly” option on the form.
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No — every penny of your gift goes directly to the staff member you’re supporting. Christ In Action does not take out any fees or percentages for administrative costs.
Our staff members serve as full-time missionaries and rely on the generosity of ministry partners like you to make their work possible.
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0%. Christ In Action does not pay staff salaries. Every person serving with us — whether full-time or part-time — does so as a missionary or volunteer.
Our team members raise their own support through designated missionary giving, allowing 100% of general donations to go directly toward relief and recovery efforts.
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Yes. 100% of every designated gift goes directly to the project or purpose you specify.
The only exception is if that specific need has already been met or a project is complete. In those cases, any remaining funds are prayerfully redirected — with board approval — to the next closest area of need, such as our ongoing Disaster Relief Fund.
If you’d like to confirm whether a project or deployment is still active before giving, please contact our office, and we’ll be happy to help.
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Every gift directly supports our mission to bring the love of Christ to those in crisis — physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Your donation helps fund disaster recovery operations, training for volunteers, chaplaincy and emotional care, and long-term recovery through Furnishing Hope. From fuel for equipment to meals for volunteers and furniture for families, every dollar helps restore hope where it’s needed most.
Christ In Action is committed to stewarding every donation with integrity, prayer, and accountability so your gift makes a real and lasting impact. You can see a detailed breakdown of how funds are used on our Donate page.
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No. Christ In Action does not receive any government funding or grants.
Our work is made possible entirely through the generosity of individual donors, churches, and ministry partners who share our mission to bring the love of Christ to those in crisis. This independence allows us to serve freely wherever the Lord leads — always with integrity, compassion, and faith at the center of every response.
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Yes. Christ In Action is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
You’ll receive a receipt for each gift you make, which you can use for your tax records. If you ever need a copy, please contact us, and our team will be happy to assist.
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Yes. You’ll receive a confirmation email immediately after giving online. If you donate by mail or through another method, a receipt will be sent once your gift is processed.
If you ever need a copy of your donation record, please contact us and our team will be happy to help.
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We’re deeply honored when supporters choose to leave a lasting impact through planned or estate giving. Your legacy gift helps ensure that Christ In Action can continue bringing the love of Christ to families in crisis for generations to come.
To learn more about including Christ In Action in your estate plans or to discuss your intentions confidentially, please contact us or email info@christinaction.com.
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Christ In Action is committed to transparency and good stewardship.
You can view or download our most recent IRS Form 990filings. These reports reflect our ongoing commitment to accountability and faithful use of every gift.
Have questions about giving or donations? Get in touch with us →
FBFR Training FAQs
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Faith-Based First Responders (FBFR) Training equips believers to serve effectively during times of crisis — both in their communities and on disaster deployments.
Through courses built on the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF) curriculum, participants learn practical crisis-response skills paired with a strong biblical foundation for providing emotional and spiritual care.
The program includes three core courses: Assisting Individuals in Crisis (AIC), Pastoral Crisis Intervention (PCI), and Crisis and Bereavement Training (CBT). Each one strengthens your ability to respond with confidence, compassion, and Christ-centered hope.
To view course descriptions, locations, dates, and registration details, visit our Training page.
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Crisis doesn’t only happen on a national scale — it can happen in your neighborhood, your workplace, or your church. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a serious illness, a divorce, or another life-altering event, people around you are often facing unseen pain.
FBFR Training equips you to recognize those moments and respond with confidence, compassion, and Christ-centered care. You’ll learn practical tools to support others through trauma and become better prepared to “bring hope” — both in everyday life and on the disaster field.
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FBFR Trainings are for anyone with a heart to serve others in times of crisis. People from all walks of life — educators, public service personnel, medical professionals, clergy, counselors, carpenters, electricians, computer technicians, mechanics, and more — have benefited from this training.
No prior experience is required. If you have a desire to help others and share the hope of Christ in moments of crisis, this training is for you.
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Because these are college-level trainings that include intense and realistic crisis scenarios, we recommend them for individuals 16 and older.
Mature teens ages 13–15 may attend with a parent or guardian. However, due to the sensitive and sometimes graphic subject matter, children under 13 are not permitted to attend.
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No. Childcare is not provided during FBFR Trainings, so we ask that participants make off-site arrangements in advance.
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Each course in the Faith-Based First Responders (FBFR) Training pathway builds confidence, compassion, and readiness to serve others in times of crisis.
Disaster Preparedness Seminar (DPS) introduces the foundations of readiness — equipping churches, families, and communities to prepare before disaster strikes.
Assisting Individuals in Crisis (AIC) — formerly Individual Crisis Intervention and Peer Support (ICIPS) — teaches the essentials of “emotional first aid.” You’ll learn how to listen effectively, what to say (and what not to say), and how to help individuals begin to stabilize during a crisis.
Pastoral Crisis Intervention (PCI) integrates the principles of pastoral care with crisis intervention techniques. It’s designed for pastors, church leaders, and laypersons who want to provide both spiritual and practical support to those experiencing trauma or loss.
Chaplains Basic Training (CBT) prepares those called to chaplaincy with the biblical foundation, communication skills, and emotional resilience needed to provide spiritual care in disaster and crisis settings.
Together, these courses form a pathway that equips and multiplies responders for ministry in the hardest moments.
Note: Training is encouraged but not required to volunteer with Christ In Action.
For current course descriptions, dates, and registration details, visit our Training page.
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Christ In Action’s FBFR courses are taught by experienced instructors who combine professional crisis-response training with real-world ministry experience.
Dr. Gary Evans, founder and director of CALM, Inc., has served as CIA’s Certified ICISF Trainer since 2007. He leads the AIC, PCI, and CBT courses, bringing a passion for teaching and years of field experience that help participants confidently apply crisis intervention principles in any setting.
The Disaster Preparedness Seminar (DPS) is led by members of CIA’s leadership team, including Chris Zitzmann, Kevin Reilly, and David Beaulieu, who share practical tools and insights drawn from years of deployment and disaster recovery experience.
To learn more about our leadership and training team, visit the About Us page.
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No, training is not required to volunteer with Christ In Action. Volunteers are always welcome to serve with us on deployment or at our headquarters.
However, attending Faith-Based First Responders (FBFR) Training is strongly encouraged. It equips you with the tools and confidence to serve more effectively — whether you’re helping on a disaster site or ministering in your own community.
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No. Completing an FBFR Training does not require you to deploy with Christ In Action — but we’d love to have you join us when opportunities arise!
The skills you gain through these courses will strengthen your confidence in addressing everyday trauma and equip you to serve effectively in your church, workplace, or community, as well as with any ministry, business, or non-profit organization.
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Yes. 1.3 CEUs are available through the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) for the AIC (Assisting Individuals in Crisis) and PCI (Pastoral Crisis Intervention) courses.
To receive credit, participants must attend both days of the training in full and complete all course requirements.
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Yes. We welcome returning participants who wish to refresh their skills or deepen their understanding.
Please contact our office to discuss audit details. The audit fee is generally $50, which includes lunch onsite both days.
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Yes. Group discounts may be available for groups of 30 or more. Please contact our office for details.
For context, similar courses offered directly through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF) typically cost around $380 and do not include meals or snacks — making CIA’s Faith-Based First Responders Training both accessible and comprehensive.
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FBFR Trainings — including AIC (Assisting Individuals in Crisis), PCI (Pastoral Crisis Intervention), and CBT (Chaplains Basic Training) — are typically two full days:
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Registration: 8:00–8:30 AM)
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Each training includes 13 contact hours, with breaks and a hot lunch served onsite both days.
The Disaster Preparedness Seminar (DPS) is a one-day seminar, usually held on Saturday from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Times may vary by location. Please visit our Training page for current schedules and details.
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To receive ICISF certification, participants must complete both full days of the AIC or PCI course.
If you’re unable to attend one of the days, the ICISF allows up to six months to make up the missed session. Christ In Action will do its best to help you complete the course within that timeframe, based on the upcoming training schedule and availability.
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A $25 fee applies to any cancellation made more than three weeks (21 days) before a scheduled training.
Cancellations made within three weeks of the event are non-refundable, but you may transfer your registration to another person or future training (for a $25 transfer fee) if arranged at least one week (7 days) in advance. After that, no transfers or refunds can be made.
If Christ In Action must cancel a course due to low registration or other unforeseen circumstances, all affected participants will receive a full refund.
For specific dates and deadlines, please see your event details on the Training page.
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No. Lodging is not provided during trainings, and dorm-style accommodations (used during deployments) are not available.
However, we’ll share a list of recommended local hotels near the training site so you can make your own arrangements.
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We love partnering with local churches, ministries, businesses, and community groups to help bring Faith-Based First Responders (FBFR) Training to new areas.
To make a training successful, we ask for a minimum of 50 people in attendance. Our team will provide guidance, materials, and support to help make your event impactful and well-organized.
For more information or to get started, please contact our office.
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The Assisting Individuals in Crisis (AIC) and Pastoral Crisis Intervention (PCI) courses are certified through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF) — the recognized industry standard for Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) training. These courses are respected by organizations worldwide, including the United Nations, and are often valued by local emergency services, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies.
Each training includes a local resource packet to help you connect with volunteer or support opportunities in your community.
Want to learn more or host a training? Get in touch with us →
Chaplaincy FAQs
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Christ In Action Chaplains provide emotional and spiritual care to individuals and families in crisis. They pray with survivors, listen with compassion, and offer the hope of Christ in times of loss and trauma — both on deployments and within their own communities.
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While we recommend the AIC and PCI trainings for anyone 13 and older, commissioned chaplains must be at least 18 years old.
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After completing the required training, application, and interview, the commissioning process typically takes a few weeks. While applications can be requested and submitted at any time, the interviews are typically held once per year in the winter months. Once approved, new chaplains are officially commissioned to serve through Christ In Action.
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The total cost, including training and application, varies depending on when you register for the training conference and whether you qualify for any discounts. The overall cost typically ranges from $670 to $870.
There is also a renewal fee when your chaplaincy term expires.
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All CIA chaplains are asked to uphold a lifestyle agreement while commissioned with Christ In Action. This commitment reflects our desire to live lives above reproach, setting an example of integrity and faith, and avoiding actions that might cause others to stumble.
+“Now the overseer is to be above reproach…” — 1 Timothy 3:2 (NIV)
+“Set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” — 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)
+“…it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble.” — Romans 14:20 (NIV)
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Yes. Each situation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis and does not automatically prevent you from becoming a chaplain.
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Each situation is reviewed individually during the panel review process and does not automatically disqualify you from chaplaincy.
Have questions about chaplaincy or commissioning? Reach out to us →
Find Your Place in the Mission
