CHARLOTTE — The Red Cross encourages to the community to resolve to volunteer in the New Year.
The need for volunteers is constant, especially in the Disaster Action Team role. Disaster Action Teams respond to disasters including home fires to provide comfort, hope, and resources to those impacted. They provide essential resources to families that are unexpectedly displaced their homes like financial assistance, comfort kits, health services to replace medications and equipment, mental health services, and community referrals.
Regional Disaster Officer Robert Sofaly states, “Since July 2021, volunteers from the Disaster Action Team have responded to 500+ fires and assisted more than 1,700 individuals in communities from Asheville to Winston-Salem, Greensboro to Charlotte, Matthews to Hickory, and everywhere in between. During the winter, we see a spike in responses so our need for volunteers rises as well.”
Red Cross is seeking 55 additional Disaster Action Team volunteers to serve on their local county team throughout the Greater Carolinas Region which is comprised of 47 western N.C. counties and 4 northern S.C. counties.
Sofaly states, “Disaster Action Team volunteers are the backbone of our regional volunteer network. Home fires are the training grounds for volunteers to support all other disasters, large and small.”
The role requires active listening, communication skills, and a computer or smartphone. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. Free training is provided. Vaccination verification required for in-person roles starting Jan. 4, 2022. Interested volunteers can apply online at redcross.org/DAT.
The local Red Cross also invites the community to join their “Resolve to Volunteer Virtual Fair” on Wednesday, Jan. 26 from 12-1 pm to learn about volunteer opportunities like blood drives, disaster response, assisting military members, and so much more. Registration is required by Jan. 24. Visit: tinyurl.com/NewYearFair. Contact GCARVolservices@redcross.org with any questions.
