Get involved
with the Susquehanna Valley Amateur Radio Club

Get involved
with the Susquehanna Valley Amateur Radio Club
The Susquehanna Valley Amateur Radio Club exists to support amateur radio in our region—through operating, education, public service, and community.
Whether you’re brand new to the hobby, recently licensed, or a long-time operator looking for local activity, this is where you can plug in.
Below are the primary ways people get involved with SVARC and the sections of the site that support each path.
Visit a meeting
The best way to understand SVARC is to see it in action.
Visitors are welcome at our meetings. There’s no obligation to join—just show up, listen, ask questions, and get a feel for how the club operates and what members are working on.
Next meeting
Monthly SVARC Meeting
Monthly SVARC Meeting
Monthly SVARC Meeting
Join a weekly radio net
SVARC holds several weekly radio and Winlink nets that are open to all amateur radio operators as a way of connecting with other amateurs, practicing our skills, and preparing for emergency communications.
Upcoming nets
CW Practice Net
Winlink Wednesday Net
SVARC Weekly VHF Net
Participate in an event
SVARC hosts or participates in numerous amateur radio and public service events throughout the year. These events are a great way to see ham radio in action while giving back to the community.
Upcoming events
PA QSO Party
PA QSO Party
Parks on the Air (POTA)
Become a member
SVARC is an active, working club. Membership supports:
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Local repeaters and infrastructure
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Regular nets and on-air activity
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Public service and emergency communications
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Education, mentoring, and outreach
If you’re looking for a local amateur radio club that values participation, practical knowledge, and keeping the hobby relevant, membership information—including dues and expectations—can be found here:
New to ham radio?
If you’re not licensed yet—or are still figuring out whether amateur radio is worth your time—start with the Getting Started section.
This is not sales material and it’s not a substitute for official study guides. It’s a practical introduction to:
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What amateur radio actually is (and isn’t)
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How people really use it today
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Licensing paths and next steps
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Basic equipment and early operating concepts
Learn, Upgrade, & Experiment
SVARC supports ongoing learning through mentoring, shared experience, and hands-on activity. This includes help with:
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First radios and station setup
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Operating practices and local frequencies
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Digital modes, portable operation, and experimentation
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License upgrades
Some of this happens formally, some informally—but it’s part of the club culture.
Projects & Participation
SVARC members contribute in different ways:
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Club and technical projects
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Public service and community support
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Event support (Field Day, special operating events, VE sessions)
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Sharing knowledge, documentation, and photos
You don’t need to do everything—but the club works because people do something.
