By Tim Poe, American Red Cross volunteer

September 4, 2019- As the 2019 hurricane season kicks into full gear, the Northeast Ohio Region of the American Red Cross is preparing to respond wherever needed. Each year, our community’s kindness, generosity and fortitude is evident as people seek ways to help, whether through donations, giving blood or deploying to affected areas.

For those considering deploying to a hurricane or other national disasters as Red Cross volunteers, here is a brief overview of the requirements:

• Deployment is a two-week (14 consecutive days) minimum commitment.
• A two-day training session is required prior to deploying.
• A background check is required.
• You must be at least 18 years of age.
• You need to be able to leave within 24-48 hours of notice once training is complete.
• You will likely be staying in a staff shelter/dormitory-type residence and sleeping on a cot.
• You must have no significant health limitations.
• There may be physical requirements for certain tasks.

The Red Cross covers travel and training expenses. Please note that there is no guarantee you will be deployed after training is completed. We send volunteers based on the needs of the affected area, which frequently change.

If you are interested or wish to learn more, visit www.redcross.org/volunteer or contact the Volunteer Services department at 216-431-3328 or NEOvolunteer@redcross.org.

In addition, local disasters such as home fires continue to occur even during national events, and the American Red Cross of Northeast Ohio assists people in our region daily. Volunteer opportunities are available in a number of fields, including Disaster Response. If you would like to explore these opportunities, connect with us using the contact information above or click here for the Northeast Ohio volunteer page.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer