Thank you for your interest in becoming a Certified Spanish Interpreter for the American Red Cross! The Red Cross needs volunteers to partner with us in this very important role. Here are some things volunteers often ask about this volunteer assignment:
What would my role be?
•Precisely interpret confidential medical information for the medical assistant and blood donor on community blood drives both in English and Spanish.
•Warmly approach Spanish speaking blood donors or event attendees to ensure each person receives excellent customer service and all their needs are met.
•Share educational facts and escort donors through the donation process.
•Remain positive, professional, flexible, helpful and patient at all times.
•Help create a respectful, safe and confidential environment so that blood donors and others feel comfortable sharing their needs and/or medical history.
•Build an immediate rapport with those working with you to ensure customer needs are met, you are trained and you know to whom to direct questions.
What is the Volunteer Agreement?
•One year promise helping on six 5-hour shifts minimum.
When does the Red Cross need help?
•Most blood drives are held during the week; a few take place on the weekends.
•In order to meet the 6 time a year promise, you will need to be available to help on some weekday blood drives.
Where are blood drives located?
•Blood drives are held throughout the greater Portland area; as far West as Aloha as far East as Troutdale and as far South as Wilsonville.
•You will need to provide your own transportation.
What are the physical and or mental demands?
•Read, hear, recall and repeat information precisely.
•Return calls/emails within 48 hours unless out of town.
•Pass Red Cross background check, orientation, training and Spanish Certification test.
•Follow the policies of the American Red Cross.
Will I see blood?
•Yes, you will see blood being drawn.
•A dielectric heat sealer is used to seal blood bags on the blood drive. It can emit a radio burst which can interfere with implantable electronic devices such as pacemakers. This position requires that you are able to work around this equipment.
