Community Service

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, our primary focus is on service to the central Virginia amateur radio community.  RATS provides:

• Two wide coverage, public-access repeater systems that provide recreational, public service, and emergency communications across the RVA metro area.

• Communications support for bike rides, marathons, parades, and other community events through our Public Service Committee.

• Technical assistance and long-term mentorship of ham radio operators through our Elmer Program and New Ham Outreach efforts.

• Opportunities to explore and experience amateur radio at public activities throughout the year, such as Field Day.

• User support for the entire DMRVA+HEARS statewide DMR repeater network, including user training and a vast library of quality codeplugs for dozens of radios.

We regularly make our systems and manpower available to organizations such as Bike MS, Sports Backers, Special Olympics, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and the National Weather Service SKYWARN program.

Donations and member dues primarily fund the operation and maintenance of our repeater systems, and our new ham outreach efforts.