Better Impact
Better Impact (BI) is an online volunteer system that helps track hours, training requirements, activations, and important information.
Sonoma CART volunteers can manage current information, volunteer interests, gain access to training information, and upload training certificates.
During a disaster, qualified volunteers can sign up for available shifts, record volunteer hours, and more.
Set up your Volunteer Profile:
1. Open the Better Impact link
Use the link provided by Sonoma CART. You can log in to an existing account or select the option to complete a new volunteer application.
​2. Create your profile
Enter a username and email address, then verify your email. Once verified, select Save and Continue.
3. Complete your volunteer application
Enter your personal information and create a password that meets the required criteria. Required fields are marked with a red flag.
4. Complete all required sections
Continue through the application and provide your availability, interests, qualifications, liability information, and other requested details.
5. Upload FEMA training certificates
In the FEMA training section, indicate which trainings you have completed and upload a PDF or JPEG copy of each certificate. You can also add certificates later as you complete additional training.
6. Submit your application
Complete the CAPTCHA, review your information, and submit the application. You will see a confirmation once your application is complete.
Watch for your welcome email
You should receive an email with a link to return to Better Impact and log in to your account.
Upload a profile photo
Once logged in, select Edit under your name, then Upload Photo. Please use a passport style photo with your face clearly visible and filling most of the frame.
Keep your profile updated
Use My Profile to review or update your information and upload additional FEMA training certificates as you complete them.
(See video below for step by step instructions).
Sign up for a training, outreach event, or incident response shifts
Using BI, volunteers can sign up for trainings, outreach events, or incident response shifts by following these steps:
1. Open Better Impact
Visit SonomaCart.org and on the home page, select Better Impact .
2. Log in to your account
Returning volunteers can log in to their existing Better Impact account. New volunteers will need to complete an application first (see above).
3. View available opportunities
Select Opportunities, then Opportunity Calendar to see available trainings and response shifts.
4. Sign up
Select the training or shift you would like to attend and click Sign Up. You will receive confirmation that you have been assigned.
View or update your schedule
Select Schedule to see everything you are currently signed up for. If you can no longer attend a training or shift, you can remove yourself from the schedule there.
(See video below for step by step instructions).