Cisco Crisis Response: Empowering Volunteers to Restore Connectivity in Disasters
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina emerged in the Gulf of Mexico, intensifying into a Category 5 storm that severely impacted New Orleans. In the wake of this disaster, Cisco deployed its then-named Tactical Operations (TacOps) team to help restore critical communications for emergency personnel and affected communities.
Two decades later, TacOps has grown into Cisco Crisis Response (CCR), a global initiative focused on delivering emergency connectivity. This program now includes a network of over 800 trained Cisco employees who volunteer to support disaster relief efforts.
The CCR Community is prepared to mobilize quickly in response to both natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies. Their goal is to provide the essential connectivity that helps first responders evaluate community needs, coordinate response strategies, and support recovery efforts. Just as importantly, they enable those impacted to contact loved ones and access vital services.
To ensure they are ready when called upon, CCR volunteers regularly participate in hands-on and virtual training sessions. These prepare them to establish communication infrastructure under extreme conditions.
Recently, training sessions were held in Rome and Munich. I spoke with three attendees: Michele Festuccia, a solutions engineering leader; Maurizio Cocco, a solutions engineer—both based in Italy—and Anna Boom, a customer experience leader from Germany. They shared insights into their experiences and motivations.
Volunteers Driven by Purpose
When asked what drew her to the CCR Community, Anna shared that witnessing the wide range of disaster responses—ranging from hurricanes to wildfires—inspired her to contribute. “It felt like an incredible opportunity to give back,” she said.
This sense of purpose resonates with many CCR volunteers, who are united by a desire to serve others during times of crisis. Cisco’s advanced connectivity solutions provide a unique platform for making a meaningful impact.
Michele emphasized the importance of training: “Being prepared means we’re ready to respond to critical situations when the need arises.”
More Than Just Technology
The CCR role goes beyond technical skills. Anna noted that crisis simulations during training revealed the importance of human connection. “We learned that responding to emergencies isn’t just about technology—it’s about understanding people and adapting to high-pressure environments,” she explained.
In addition to technical expertise, CCR volunteers must demonstrate empathy, resilience, and adaptability. These soft skills are just as critical as the equipment they deploy, including rapid response kits and the Network Emergency Response Vehicle (NERV).
A Culture of Giving
Cisco’s culture strongly emphasizes social responsibility. In fiscal year 2024, over 70,000 employees globally participated in service initiatives—marking the fifth consecutive year where more than 80% engaged in volunteering.
Maurizio reflected on this ethos, sharing, “Supporting communities during difficult times is ingrained in who we are.” He recounted joining forces with Michele’s team during the 2016 earthquake in central Italy, using Cisco technology to build a hybrid response solution.
Michele added, “Joining CCR gave us access to more tools and a broader network to increase our impact. As Maurizio said, giving back is just part of who we are.”
Global Presence, Local Strength
Speaking with the three volunteers underscored the value of having trained personnel across the world. CCR’s global reach means they can respond quickly and effectively—especially when local knowledge and language skills are essential.
For instance, sending a non-Italian speaker to an Italian disaster zone isn’t ideal. With 800 volunteers worldwide, CCR can ensure the right people are deployed to the right places, improving both efficiency and effectiveness.
Training for Impact
The training programs in Munich and Rome emphasized the importance of clear protocols and readiness.
Maurizio noted, “Every volunteer needs to be managed effectively so that they can truly help, not hinder.” Michele echoed this sentiment: “We learned how important it is to understand your role and to operate in sync with others during a crisis.”
The Broader Value of Giving Back
Our conversation also explored how humanitarian work benefits Cisco beyond the immediate relief it provides.
Michele explained that engaging in crisis response helps build trust and strengthen Cisco’s reputation. “It’s a powerful way to show who we are as a company,” he said.
Inspired to Serve
The passion and commitment shown by CCR volunteers is inspiring. Their efforts highlight how volunteerism goes beyond assistance—it builds relationships, nurtures hope, and reinforces a shared humanity.
Anna summed it up beautifully: “Volunteering is a meaningful way to support both the community and Cisco—it’s something we’re proud to be part of.”
As we recognize Global Volunteer Month, may their stories encourage us all to find our own ways to give back. Whether through skilled volunteering, everyday acts of kindness, or direct community service, every contribution counts.
Two decades later, TacOps has grown into Cisco Crisis Response (CCR), a global initiative focused on delivering emergency connectivity. This program now includes a network of over 800 trained Cisco employees who volunteer to support disaster relief efforts.
The CCR Community is prepared to mobilize quickly in response to both natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies. Their goal is to provide the essential connectivity that helps first responders evaluate community needs, coordinate response strategies, and support recovery efforts. Just as importantly, they enable those impacted to contact loved ones and access vital services.
To ensure they are ready when called upon, CCR volunteers regularly participate in hands-on and virtual training sessions. These prepare them to establish communication infrastructure under extreme conditions.
Recently, training sessions were held in Rome and Munich. I spoke with three attendees: Michele Festuccia, a solutions engineering leader; Maurizio Cocco, a solutions engineer—both based in Italy—and Anna Boom, a customer experience leader from Germany. They shared insights into their experiences and motivations.
Volunteers Driven by Purpose
When asked what drew her to the CCR Community, Anna shared that witnessing the wide range of disaster responses—ranging from hurricanes to wildfires—inspired her to contribute. “It felt like an incredible opportunity to give back,” she said.
This sense of purpose resonates with many CCR volunteers, who are united by a desire to serve others during times of crisis. Cisco’s advanced connectivity solutions provide a unique platform for making a meaningful impact.
Michele emphasized the importance of training: “Being prepared means we’re ready to respond to critical situations when the need arises.”
More Than Just Technology
The CCR role goes beyond technical skills. Anna noted that crisis simulations during training revealed the importance of human connection. “We learned that responding to emergencies isn’t just about technology—it’s about understanding people and adapting to high-pressure environments,” she explained.
In addition to technical expertise, CCR volunteers must demonstrate empathy, resilience, and adaptability. These soft skills are just as critical as the equipment they deploy, including rapid response kits and the Network Emergency Response Vehicle (NERV).
A Culture of Giving
Cisco’s culture strongly emphasizes social responsibility. In fiscal year 2024, over 70,000 employees globally participated in service initiatives—marking the fifth consecutive year where more than 80% engaged in volunteering.
Maurizio reflected on this ethos, sharing, “Supporting communities during difficult times is ingrained in who we are.” He recounted joining forces with Michele’s team during the 2016 earthquake in central Italy, using Cisco technology to build a hybrid response solution.
Michele added, “Joining CCR gave us access to more tools and a broader network to increase our impact. As Maurizio said, giving back is just part of who we are.”
Global Presence, Local Strength
Speaking with the three volunteers underscored the value of having trained personnel across the world. CCR’s global reach means they can respond quickly and effectively—especially when local knowledge and language skills are essential.
For instance, sending a non-Italian speaker to an Italian disaster zone isn’t ideal. With 800 volunteers worldwide, CCR can ensure the right people are deployed to the right places, improving both efficiency and effectiveness.
Training for Impact
The training programs in Munich and Rome emphasized the importance of clear protocols and readiness.
Maurizio noted, “Every volunteer needs to be managed effectively so that they can truly help, not hinder.” Michele echoed this sentiment: “We learned how important it is to understand your role and to operate in sync with others during a crisis.”
The Broader Value of Giving Back
Our conversation also explored how humanitarian work benefits Cisco beyond the immediate relief it provides.
Michele explained that engaging in crisis response helps build trust and strengthen Cisco’s reputation. “It’s a powerful way to show who we are as a company,” he said.
Inspired to Serve
The passion and commitment shown by CCR volunteers is inspiring. Their efforts highlight how volunteerism goes beyond assistance—it builds relationships, nurtures hope, and reinforces a shared humanity.
Anna summed it up beautifully: “Volunteering is a meaningful way to support both the community and Cisco—it’s something we’re proud to be part of.”
As we recognize Global Volunteer Month, may their stories encourage us all to find our own ways to give back. Whether through skilled volunteering, everyday acts of kindness, or direct community service, every contribution counts.
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