American Red Cross Mid-Florida Chapter

DCS: Disaster Action Team Duty Officer

This is a volunteer opportunity, not a paid position.

This volunteer opportunity is NOT eligible for court-ordered service.

The American Red Cross is seeking volunteers for the Disaster Action Team (DAT) Duty Officer position within the Regional Disaster Cycle Services (DCS) department. This role is crucial in responding to the approximately 60,000 local emergencies the Red Cross addresses annually, primarily personal disasters like home fires. The Duty Officer is responsible for ensuring timely activation and monitoring of DAT responses, providing essential support to families in recovery through emotional assistance, financial aid, and information.

In terms of leadership responsibilities, the Duty Officer triages incoming requests to determine the necessity of a Red Cross response and escalates actions based on the event's size, scope, and type. They collaborate with on-scene DAT leadership, offer technical guidance, and may assist in training new Duty Officers. Effective communication with leadership and stakeholders is vital, as is compliance with DAT Standards and Procedures.

Functionally, the Duty Officer documents disaster notifications, manages DAT calls, and ensures the appropriate dispatch of responders. They maintain communication with assigned responders, updating their status in the RC Respond system, and may oversee multiple DAT responses simultaneously. The role also involves notifying relevant staff of significant events and contributing to Initial Incident Reports when necessary.

Candidates must have reliable access to technology, be comfortable with new systems, and possess strong communication skills. The position requires the ability to prioritize tasks in fast-paced environments, a commitment to public health and Red Cross policies, and the capacity to work long hours on a computer. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and willing to engage actively in team meetings and training sessions.

DCS: Disaster Action Team Specialist

This is a volunteer opportunity, not a paid position.

This volunteer opportunity is NOT eligible for court-ordered service.

The American Red Cross is seeking volunteers for the position of Disaster Action Team Specialist, which plays a crucial role in supporting the Regional Disaster Services department. This position is vital as the Red Cross responds to approximately 60,000 emergencies annually, primarily local disasters such as home fires. Disaster Action Teams (DAT) are responsible for providing emotional support, financial assistance, and essential information to help families initiate their recovery process.

As a DAT Specialist, responsibilities include collaborating with a team to respond to local disasters, maintaining communication with the Duty Officer and team members, and delivering care and compassion to clients in line with Red Cross standards. Specialists are also tasked with assessing resource needs on-site, completing client case management tasks in the RC Care system, and participating in regular team meetings.

General responsibilities for all specialists emphasize adherence to Red Cross principles, flexibility in a dynamic environment, effective collaboration, and independent task management. Required qualifications for DAT Specialists include comfort with technology, reliable access to communication devices, and the ability to respond to local disasters during assigned shifts. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, possess a valid driver's license, and be prepared to work under challenging conditions.

Overall, the role demands strong organizational skills, the ability to work with diverse individuals, and a commitment to public health and Red Cross policies. The position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community by providing immediate support to those affected by disasters.

DCS: Recovery Client Care Program Service Associate

This is a volunteer opportunity, not a paid position.

This volunteer opportunity is NOT eligible for court-ordered service.

The American Red Cross is seeking volunteers for the position of Recovery Client Care Program Service Associate within the Regional Disaster Cycle Services department. This role is crucial for assisting individuals and communities affected by disasters by facilitating access to financial assistance and community resources through the RC Care case management system.

Key responsibilities include conducting client intake interviews, providing financial assistance to eligible clients, and offering follow-up and recovery planning services. The associate will also make internal and community referrals, assist with problem-solving, and advocate for clients as needed. Documentation of services must be completed in accordance with established standards and procedures, and services can be delivered both in-person and virtually.

Volunteers must complete a total of nine hours of virtual self-paced training and adhere to Red Cross COVID-19 policies for in-person activities. The position requires flexibility to work in a dynamic environment, interact compassionately with diverse individuals facing immediate needs, and possess strong problem-solving skills. Familiarity with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn new online systems are essential.

Candidates must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver’s license for potential deployments, and be available for shifts that may last from four to twelve hours on consecutive days. The role demands effective communication skills, the ability to work for extended periods, and a commitment to understanding and valuing diverse perspectives.

DCS: Sheltering Service Associate

This is a volunteer opportunity, not a paid position.

This volunteer opportunity is NOT eligible for court-ordered service.

The American Red Cross is seeking volunteers for the position of Sheltering Service Associate (SA) within the Regional Disaster Cycle Services (DCS) department. This temporary role involves working in-person at disaster shelters before, during, and after events, where associates will perform essential tasks to support shelter operations and assist clients in meeting their needs. Responsibilities may include working in various areas such as reception, registration, feeding, and information.

Volunteers are expected to provide excellent customer service and complete a required 3.5 hours of virtual self-paced training. Compliance with Red Cross COVID-19 policies is mandatory, and volunteers must be willing to work in a dynamic environment where priorities may shift frequently. The role requires comfort in interacting with diverse individuals facing immediate challenges and the ability to work effectively as part of a team under supervision.

Physical requirements include the ability to lift 20 lbs, stand or sit for extended periods, walk for two miles, navigate uneven terrain, and work outdoors in various weather conditions. A valid driver’s license is necessary for certain deployments, and candidates must be at least 18 years old. Flexibility in scheduling is important, as shifts can range from 4 to 12 hours and may require consecutive days of availability. Proficiency in reading, writing, and following instructions in English is also essential for this position.