The American Red Cross alleviates and prevents human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.
Time and time again, I hear from our dedicated volunteers how gratifying it is to be a member of the Red Cross: volunteers who assist total strangers after they have had a house fire; volunteers who open and operate shelters for those evacuated because of wildfires; volunteers who work with families on their long road to recovery after a disaster; volunteers who work with families to prevent disasters in their homes.
One of my favorite statements I have heard in my time with the Red Cross was from one of our disaster-action team captains after he responded to a house fire: “I view my role with the Red Cross as being the best part of someone’s worst day.” That truly embodies the spirit of a Red Cross Volunteer.
In Southwest Colorado, we are looking for volunteers interested in turning their compassion for humanity into hope for someone in need. Many times, we see requests to volunteer during large disaster responses, such as wildfires. My encouragement to these folks is to begin volunteering before there is smoke in the air, so that you are prepared for your responsibilities. Know the Red Cross practices and procedures, and you’ll be much better equipped to assist your community in their time of need. An oriented and well-trained volunteer workforce is much easier to mobilize at a moment’s notice.
If this sounds like something you are interested in, or always have wanted to get involved with the Red Cross, now is your chance. We look for volunteers from all walks of life and have opportunities for those who would like a regular schedule and for those who are able to help at a moment’s notice.
We will be holding a Red Cross training academy in Durango on April 24-26, where we can provide you with all of the basic training needed to get started with your Red Cross experience, but there is no reason to wait until April. For those interested in signing up, please visit www.RedCross.org/Colorado. For more information, please call 317-4019 or 242-6646.
Eric Myers is executive director for the Red Cross in Western Colorado. Reach him at eric.myers@redcross.org or 242-4851.
