Tons of birds flock south for the winter.  Due to that, quite a few counties have regular wild bird sanctuaries, and coastal counties tend to have seabird sanctuaries as well.  In addition, about half the veterinarians here are licensed rehabbers.  There are a goodly number of individually licensed rehabbers too.  In addition, we get some serious smaller storms throughout the year, as well as hurricanes.  It's fairly normal for the sanctuaries, rehabbers, vets, etc. to get overwhelmed during those times.  Its' not uncommon for them to allow regular folks to help with the overflow.  As long as they know the situation, and are convinced the person is capable to properly care for the bird, there is no problem with it.  In essence, you're working with them, under their licensing.