Disney Emergency Amateur Radio Service (DEARS): A Small But Dedicated Club

The ARRL website showcases the Disney Emergency Amateur Radio Service (DEARS, WD4WDW) as a specialized club with a focus on supporting Disney in times of need.

Key Points About DEARS:

• Limited Membership: With only 5 members, this appears to be a small, close-knit group.
• Focus on Emergency Support: Given their name and lack of listed specialties beyond repeaters and VHF/UHF communication, their primary focus seems to be emergency communication, likely supporting Disney during critical situations.
• Virtual Meetings: Due to COVID-19, meetings are currently held virtually via Microsoft Teams. Contact information is provided to inquire about details.
• Mentorship Offered: They do offer mentorship, potentially for new hams interested in emergency communication.

Is DEARS (WD4WDW) a Good Fit for You?

• Disney Affiliation: If you have a connection to Disney and are interested in emergency communication, DEARS could be a good option. However, their small size and specialized focus might limit appeal for general ham radio enthusiasts.
• Emergency Communication Focus: If you're passionate about supporting emergency response efforts, DEARS could be interesting, but confirm their needs and if they accept new members.

Connecting with DEARS:

• Contact: Reach out to Brenda L. Davis KN4UJL, the Contact and President, via email (officers@wd4wdw.org) to inquire about specific activities, membership requirements (if applicable), and how to join their virtual meetings.
• Website: Visit their website (http://www.WD4WDW.org) for potentially more information about their activities and how to connect with them.

Important Note: Given their focus on emergency communication and limited membership, it's advisable to contact them directly to confirm their openness to new members and ensure their activities align with your interests.