You’ve probably seen bright alerts on social media or in the news reading “Missing person!” or “Child lost!”. Most of these are published by the Angel Search and Rescue team, which began its work 12 years ago, helping to to find missing or lost people. The BeginTimes team met with Sergey Kovgan, founder and head of the Angel Unit, to learn how rescue operations are carried out today, who can become a volunteer, and how we can support those who dedicate themselves to helping others. 

The main reason people go missing – forested areas: every year people of all ages disappear without trace — even locals who know the forest “like the back of their hand”. The “hot” season has already begun, but the team remains on duty around the clock, regardless of weather or time of year. 

It’s also possible to get lost in the city. Many search requests come in for elderly people suffering from memory loss, hearing or speech impairments, and for missing children. 

Why can’t you just go searching on your own? The risk of getting lost yourself is too high. That’s why a disciplined search and rescue team exists — one that operates with clear rules and strict coordination between the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the police, investigators and medical services. Volunteers receive mandatory instruction before each mission, both on search procedures and internal regulations. Sergey explained that movement in the search area is only allowed in an organised group — square by square — under the guidance of a coordinator. Everyone who takes part must check in at the start and end of the operation. The team even includes volunteers with trained dogs, who undergo regular practice sessions with a dog handler three to four times a week. Sergey also told us about the range of specialized equipment used for search operations on land and underwater. 

Anyone who cares can become a volunteer — simply by leaving their details on the team’s website or social media pages. Volunteers are usually asked to bring a change of clothes, snacks, water, a hot drink and a torch, dressing appropriately for the terrain and weather. Newcomers can also help with other vital tasks — from posting search notices to cooking meals for the team. Every contribution matters. 

The biggest challenge Angel faces is funding. The search and rescue team is a non-profit organisation and operates entirely through charitable donations. At the moment, they are in urgent need of new batteries, chargers and torches for their field equipment. 

BeginTimes has made a small financial contribution to support the team and hopes to inspire others to do the same. No matter what we do, caring for others remains our top priority. That’s what true partnership means — joining forces to make life better for everyone and ensuring no one is left without help.