Be a Source of Hope: Become a Disaster Spiritual Care Volunteer

Volunteer Opportunity: Disaster Spiritual Care Volunteer

Help people find strength, hope, and resilience in times of crisis. As a Disaster Spiritual Care (DSC) Volunteer, you’ll provide compassionate, interfaith spiritual and emotional support to individuals and families affected by disasters, as well as to fellow Red Cross workers.

Key Responsibilities

• Support disaster clients as they draw on their own spiritual resources, values, and faith during crisis—regardless of faith tradition.
• Build and maintain partnerships with local faith-based organizations.
• Promote long-term recovery by offering spiritual/emotional care and connecting clients with community resources.
• Provide spiritual care support to Red Cross staff and volunteers upon request.

Why You’ll Be a Great Fit

Required Qualifications:

• Meets one of the following criteria:
  • A disaster spiritual care provider in good standing with a National VOAD member organization.
  • A Board-certified chaplain.
  • A professional chaplain (paid or volunteer) endorsed by their organization.
  • An endorsed leader of a local faith community or organization.
  • Successfully completed the DSC Screening evaluation with a DSC Regional Program Lead or Division Advisor.
• Strong organizational skills; reliable and punctual.
• Demonstrated active listening and compassionate communication skills.
• Ability to follow standards, procedures, and reporting requirements.
• Ability to involve appropriate partners to manage problems or conflict.
• Able to gather, evaluate, and report information accurately.
• Ability to provide interfaith support while upholding neutrality and impartiality.

Key Skills

• Customer Focus: Builds strong relationships and delivers client‑centered care.
• Action Oriented: Approaches new challenges with urgency, energy, and enthusiasm.
• Values Differences: Respects and embraces diverse cultures, perspectives, and beliefs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or sit for up to 2 hours.
• Able to walk up to 2 miles per shift on uneven terrain.
• Able to bend, stoop, or kneel multiple times per shift.
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Ability to write, read small print, speak clearly on the phone, and work on a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to climb two or more flights of stairs.
• Ability to drive during daytime and evening hours.