NVOAD coordinates planning efforts by many voluntary organizations responding to disaster. Member organizations provide more effective and less duplication in service by getting together before disasters strike. Once disasters occur, NVOAD or an affiliated state VOAD encourages members and other voluntary agencies to convene on site. This cooperative effort has proven to be the most effective way for a wide variety of volunteers and organizations to work together in a crisis.

NVOAD serves member organizations through:

• Communication - disseminating information through electronic mechanisms, its Newsletter, the directory, research and demonstration, case studies, and critique.
• 
  Cooperation - creating a climate for cooperation at all levels (including grass roots) and providing information.
• 
  Coordination - coordinating policy among member organizations and serving as a liaison, advocate, and national voice.
• 
  Education - providing training and increasing awareness and preparedness in each organization.
• 
  Leadership Development - giving volunteer leaders training and support so as to build effective state VOAD organizations.
• 
  Mitigation - supporting the efforts of federal, state, and local agencies and governments and supporting appropriate legislation.
• 
  Convening Mechanisms - putting on seminars, meetings, board meetings, regional conferences, training programs, and local conferences.
• 
  Outreach - encouraging the formation of and giving guidance to state and regional voluntary organizations active in disaster relief.