HOULTON, Maine — Those interested in becoming disaster volunteers for the Red Cross are encouraged to participate in a weekend event that will offer the skills and training needed to become a disaster services volunteer in just two days.
Called the Zero2 Hero program, necessary training is provided to become a client casework volunteer, a shelter volunteer, a disaster mental health volunteer and a health services volunteer.
Each volunteer opportunity comes with its own set of skills: client casework volunteers meet with disaster victims, assess their needs, and help them begin the recovery process; shelter volunteers work at a shelter in the event of a large scale disaster, such as an ice storm or flood; disaster mental health volunteers provide emotional support during times of disaster and crisis and are required to currently hold a license to practice as a mental health professional. Health services volunteers assess victim’s health and ensure they have appropriate care.
“Well over 90 percent of our disaster responders are volunteers,” said Danielle Hardre, disaster program manager for the Greater Bangor and Aroostook regions. “A strong volunteer base will ensure we can provide local assistance to victims of fires and other disasters.”
Participants in the training will also complete all necessary paperwork to become an active volunteer of the Red Cross.
The event takes place at the Houlton Regional Hospital on Wednesday, Sept. 17 from 6- 9:30 p.m. with snacks provided, and on Thursday, Sept. 18 from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. with lunch provided.
Interested individuals may up at MaineRedCross.org, or, for additional information, contact Hardre, danielle.hardre@redcross.org or 207-941-2903, x405.
