Disaster Action Team Member - Jackson County

Title: Disaster Action Team Jackson County

Description:

A Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteer is a part of a local team that responds to local disasters including home fires and major storms to provide comfort, hope, and Red Cross services. DAT volunteers ease the difficulties of people unexpectedly overwhelmed by disasters. They are called on to engage with clients, first responders, and the public.

VIRTUAL VOLUNTEER: Volunteers follow up with those impacted by disasters via phone or computer to provide a "Good Hello" and complete a Client Intake Worksheet. During the response, volunteers provide compassion and resources like financial assistance for lodging to those displaced from their home. They may also provide community referrals and referrals to other Red Cross Services like Mental Health, Health Services, and Spiritual Care.

ON-THE-SCENE-VOLUNTEER: In person service delivery is a vital part of our mission. This could include on scene at a house fire, operating a shelter after a major disaster, or providing canteen to first responders during an emergency.

PROVIDE A "GOOD HELLO": Whether volunteers assist virtually or on-the scene, Red Crossers must be adaptable, flexible, and provide a "Good Hello" - to those who have experienced a disaster - as they now become our clients in our care. Responders must be able to demonstrate the following qualities in their "Good Hello":

• Care and Compassion
• Impartiality and Empathy
• Active listening
• Confidence to help on their "Road to Recovery"

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• 18 years or older
• Available to be "on-call" for one week per month (this is flexible and can be done in shifts)
• Have a valid driver's license and vehicle (unless interested in virtual-only response options)
• Must have basic computer skills and knowledge
• Access to computer/tablet/smartphone and good connectively internet for response
• A "self-starter" to complete required online training courses and attend monthly meetings
• Able to collaborate with other Disaster Action Team members who are on scene and those responding virtually to ensure service delivery to those in need.