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Responders conduct initial disaster relief fieldwork which includes providing emergency food, clothing, shelter, and financial assistance to affected clients. Responders perform these functions individually, and in some cases as part of a team. Responsibilities include:
• Assessing level of response and reporting to the Emergency Communication Center (ECC) and other Disaster Planning and Response units
• Conducting damage assessments of affected dwellings and determining habitability
• Collecting client information and completing appropriate processes and data entry
• Transporting clients from disaster sites to temporary relocation sites
• Serving as field contact to other ARC/GNY departments, governmental agencies and organizations
• Assisting in maintaining readiness of disaster response vehicles, including the vans, emergency response vehicles (ERV), and related equipment

Time Commitment/Shifts:
• Two eight-hour shifts per month, on call to be available to respond to large-scale disasters as needed

Qualifications/Requirements:
• Ability to lift 50 lbs repeatedly
• Valid driver’s license in state of residence and familiarity with NYS traffic laws
• Ability to drive Red Cross vehicles, including mini-vans, station wagons, 15 passenger vans and ERVs
• Ability to climb stairs, work in smoky and damp buildings and walk for extended periods of time
• Strong interpersonal, communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to promote and maintain productive working relationships with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds

Register for Volunteer Orientation & Fulfilling Our Mission at www.nyredcross.org/volunteer