Many have found that simple antennas built from copper wire and insulators can be very effective. From March through October one of the biggest flea markets in the area is held on Saturday mornings at Foothill College. The radio club has organized many of its members into an Emergency Communications Team. The purpose of the ECT is to help assist in emergencies by supplying radio operators for message handling. This is far more than providing radio equipment.
Hams develop their message-handling skills through practice and discipline.
Because they also possess technical skills, they offer flexibility if portions of systems are inoperable. Amateurs have flown on a number of shuttle flights and actively demonstrated communications skills directly to public school classrooms. Many hams enjoy building their own equipment. Others find satisfaction designing and erecting their station antennas. So there is room in amateur radio for an endless variety of experimentation, development, and personal growth.