(From the American Red Cross of North Central Ohio)
The American Red Cross of North Central Ohio needs local volunteers to respond to disasters in Hancock County. To help recruit and train new volunteers, the Red Cross will be holding an informational presentation on Wednesday, January 28, 6:00 pm at the Hancock County Red Cross office, 125 Fair St. in Findlay.
The Red Cross responds to more than 60,000 disasters every year, said Executive Director Todd James. The majority of those disasters are local home fires. “People see major disasters in the news, like tornadoes and hurricanes, and they know the Red Cross is there providing shelter, food and comfort,” James said. “But it’s here at home where we handle most of our disaster responses, helping families who have lost their homes to fire or a local flood or storm.”
James said the Red Cross, like many other organizations, are still feeling the affects the COVID-19 pandemic had on their volunteer teams. “We had a lot of volunteers who had to step back from helping and haven’t been able to return. It’s vital that we have trained volunteers ready to answer the call for help at all times.”
James said he knows that there is a commitment of time and effort to being a local Red Cross volunteer disaster responder, but the return is well worth it. “Our volunteers will tell you that the feeling that comes with helping a family after a fire or other disaster is worth more than gold, knowing that on someone’s darkest day they are the light of hope.”
At the information session, attendees will learn the requirements to be a Disaster Action Team volunteer and will have the opportunity to speak with current volunteers to ask questions and learn about their experiences. Refreshments will be provided at the event and attendees will receive a Red Cross appreciation gift. RSVPs are requested but not required. For more information or to RSVP, contact the Red Cross at northcentralohio@redcross.org or call (419) 422-9322.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Become a Red Cross volunteer to help ensure families don’t face emergencies alone. Visit redcross.org/VolunteerToday to learn more and apply.
