Representatives with the American Red Cross are putting out the call for Kentucky volunteers. Officials said much of the need revolves around responding to the aftermath of single-family house fires.
Many positions are available, including as a Disaster Action Team member, Shelter Service Associate, Disaster Health Services Team member, and Blood Donor Ambassador. Lori Medley is the Regional Volunteer Services Officer for the American Red Cross. She said in addition to those, people who specialize in spiritual and mental health are needed.
“That goes along with being that comprehensive support system for that family. With their health service’s needs, their mental health needs, and of course their spiritual care, as well, if they request that,” said Medley.
Red Cross officials said volunteers make their own availability and choose how far they are willing to travel to respond to a disaster. The American Red Cross has positions for people of any skill set.
Medley added volunteering can be very rewarding, as the Red Cross can be someone’s lifeline to getting back on track after a disaster.
“You can make such a huge difference in somebody’s life if you’re willing to step forward and say “Hey, I’m there for you. I can help.”. We provide all the training. We make it easy to get started, get registered with the Red Cross,” said Medley.
Volunteers must sign a code of conduct agreement and pass a background check as part of the registration process. More information on how to volunteer can be found here.