Volunteer

Volunteer Opportunities

WHAT IS THE USNSCC OFFICER CORPS?

The NSCC Officer Corps is made of dedicated volunteers adult leaders, both civilian and military, who provide for the administration of all facets of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps. This includes the operation of local units to the operation of summer training programs. Officers must be U.S. Citizens and be at least 21 years of age.

WHAT IS AN NSCC MIDSHIPMAN?

NSCC midshipmen are adult leaders in training who are between the ages of 18 and 21. Normally NSCC midshipmen are former cadets who reached the rate of seaman as a cadet, former JROTC cadets, or members of the military who are not old enough to be an NSCC instructor or officer.

WHAT IS AN NSCC INSTRUCTOR?

An NSCC instructor is an adult leader who either has an interest in becoming an NSCC officer or who wants to dedicate his or her time to mentoring and training cadets. All persons applying to be in the NSCC Officer Corps are first enrolled as an NSCC instructor for a period of one year. After one year, instructors may apply for an appointment to the NSCC Officer Corps or remain an instructor. Instructor responsibilities are generally less than those of an officer.

CAN PARENTS BE NSCC ADULT LEADERS?

Yes. In fact, a large percentage of NSCC adult leaders are parents of current and former cadets. Involved parents are the lifeblood of the NSCC Officer Corps.

WHAT EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED?

The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is organized along military lines; therefore, having military experience is a definite plus, but it is not a requirement. Experienced adult leaders and senior cadets will gladly help you become familiar with the military atmosphere. At most local units, volunteers are needed to instruct cadets in a variety of subjects, keep and maintain service records, keep track of cadet training, maintain unit supply, and recruit and publicize the program. As long as you are motivated and willing to help in the cause of promoting the positive development of youth, there is a place for you in the Corps.

DO ADULT LEADERS EARN RANK?

Yes. Those adult leaders who apply for appointment to the NSCC Officer Corps will have the opportunity to earn rank. New NSCC officers are appointed by the NSCC Executive Director to the rank of ensign. The NSCC officer rank structure parallels that of the U.S. Navy. NSCC officers may promote through the rank of lieutenant commander. In order for NSCC officers to promote, they must meet minimum performance, training, and time-in-service requirements. They must also contribute a minimum amount of volunteer service to NSCC summer training programs. NSCC officer rank is entirely honorary and does not have any relation to or authority and entitlements of actual military rank.

CAN I HELP ONLY A FEW HOURS A MONTH?

Absolutely! We understand that there are many people who want to help but have busy lives, and giving up 20-30 hours a month to be a full-time volunteer is just not feasible. Often all it takes is a couple of hours a month to help a unit sort uniforms, teach a class, chaperone a field trip, and the like. The contribution of a few dedicated part-time volunteers can go a long way to accomplish the overall mission.

HOW TO BECOME A VOLUNTEER

1. Request an interview with the CO.

2. Email a picture yourself taken from the shoulders up, wearing a black or navy t-shirt, facing forward, on white background. 

3. If approved, the unit CO will send the prospective volunteer an email invitation link.

4. Once the prospective volunteer completes the application online, including all references, the application is returned to the CO for approval or denial.

5. If approved, you must register and pay for the background check. While the background check is in process (it may take a week or so) the volunteer must complete the Safeguarding Cadets and OMSG coursework.

6. Once all of the above is completed, the volunteer status will move from “Pending Adults” to “Active Adults and the unit will issue an USNSCC ID.