The following information was obtained on 8/2/2018 directly from http://www.arrllax.org/index.php?page=ares
Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)
ARES is a nationwide organization of licensed radio amateurs who have volunteered their expertise and equipment to provide emergency communications whenever disaster strikes. We’re always looking for new members. If you would like to offer your time and expertise for a worthwhile and necessary public service, we invite you to apply for membership. The only qualifications are a ham radio license and a desire to serve. Feel free to “drop in” to any of our districts’ weekly nets.