Disaster Response Volunteers- Canadian Red Cross

Disaster Response Volunteers

Join the BC/Yukon Disaster Management Team!

Disaster Response Volunteers Needed in the following areas: Victoria & South Island, Nanaimo & Central Vancouver Island, Penticton & South Okanagan, Trail & Kootenay Boundary District, Terrace & Fort. St. John

When an event such as a house fire or a natural disaster leaves people vulnerable, the Canadian Red Cross Disaster Management team is there to respond. By providing relief and recovery assistance, we support individuals and communities immediately following disasters. We are currently looking for volunteers to join our diverse team of personnel.

As a Disaster Management volunteer, you will take 40 hours of National Red Cross training to learn how to best support those affected by disasters. After this training is completed, you will become part of a larger response team that can be activated for both small and large-scale disasters. There are opportunities to develop your leadership skills through training and exercises and share your expertise in key support services areas like human resources and logistics.

Qualifications:

Excellent communication skills (verbal & written).
Excellent listening skills & ability to empathize.
Ability to work well and make decisions under stress.
Flexible; willing to work hours that vary depending on the nature of the disaster.
Strong computer skills and second language an asset

Requirements:

Ability to abide by and follow the principles of the Red Cross during disaster response
Minimum 18 years of age.
Clean criminal records check with vulnerable sector search completed.

Time Commitment:

20 hours/year for a 2-year commitment to Disaster Management programs
Ability to work during non-traditional hours (weekends, evenings) and/or regular business hours

Training:

Intro to Disaster Management
Self-Care for Disaster Workers
Providing Relief Assistance to Clients
Providing Recovery Assistance to Clients
Emergency or Standard First Aid

Benefits:

Learn about Disaster Management and the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement
Supporting communities and individuals affected by disaster
Chance to develop technical and leadership skills around disaster management
Share specialized skills and expertise in human resources, logistics, and planning
Opportunity for qualified volunteers to deploy away-from home to disaster response in Canada and the US for large-scale disaster responses

Sound interesting? Join an online information session on Tuesday, February 5 from 6:30 - 8:00 pm. RSVP to bcyukon.dmvolunteer@redcross.ca. Once your registration is confirmed, we will provide you with the access infromation.

Live in the Courtenay/Comox area? Join us for an information session in person on February 26 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm. RSVP to bccodmhr@redcross.ca.

For other areas, contact bcyukon.dmvolunteer@redcross.ca for more information to become part of this highly trained and dynamic team!