Spanning continents and time zones, ZAKA’s international volunteer network is specially trained to respond to everyday emergencies and large-scale disasters—ready to administer first aid, facilitate crisis management, honor the deceased, and evacuate or rescue those in need. Since 2005, ZAKA has been recognized by the United Nations as an NGO, and in 2016 was granted official advisory and observer status, reflecting the organization’s global reputation for professional expertise and rapid deployment.

A Vanguard Force Worldwide

ZAKA’s international volunteers—numbering in the thousands—are strategically located around the globe to shorten the distance between disaster and relief. Thanks to specialized training courses (recognized by INSARAG, the UN’s international rescue arm), these teams can mobilize quickly in their own countries and sometimes cross borders to bring humanitarian aid when catastrophes strike. Their ZAKA vests and UN-recognized volunteer certificates symbolize a commitment to preserving life, offering respectful care for the deceased, and stabilizing crisis environments—fulfilling our foundational mission of “A world of kindness will be built.”

Proven Operational Excellence

Whether confronting terror attacks (such as 9/11 in New York, Mombasa, Bali, Mumbai, and Brussels) or natural disasters (including earthquakes in Haiti, Mexico, and Turkey, hurricanes in Houston and Miami, and tsunamis in Thailand and Japan), ZAKA volunteers have demonstrated their extraordinary capacity to respond swiftly and effectively. This operational prowess is strengthened by joint exercises with militaries worldwide, including the U.S. Army and NATO forces, ensuring continuous advancement in emergency preparedness.

Everyday Impact

On a day-to-day basis, these international units assist travelers and expatriates caught in accidents or local crises. Their routine drills around the world keep volunteers at peak readiness, ready to pivot into full-scale operations at a moment’s notice. From small accidents to major calamities, ZAKA’s global family stands firm in offering help wherever it is needed.

Fueled by Generosity

All of this is made possible by the kindness of donors who believe in ZAKA’s worldwide mission. Through ongoing support, we can equip and train even more volunteers, build stronger ties with international agencies, and, most importantly, save lives and honor those who have passed on—proving that compassion knows no borders.