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A New Year's Resolution: Become A Volunteer for the American Red Cross
Looking for a resolution for the New Year that is easy to keep? Consider dedicating some time to support fellow New Yorkers affected by disasters. A new one-day training program at the American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC/GNY) allows volunteers to contribute to the organization's mission to help New Yorkers when they need it most.
"A Red Cross volunteer is dedicated, committed, compassionate and selfless, and every one of them freely offers his or her time for the greater good of our communities," said Theresa A. Bischoff, CEO, American Red Cross in Greater New York. "Without our dedicated volunteers, there wouldn't be a Red Cross to help New Yorkers during the many daily emergencies and larger disasters. Without more New Yorkers joining us as volunteers, we can not be ready to help during hurricanes and other storms, power outages and other disasters that affect our city and surrounding counties."
ARC/GNY is the largest Red Cross chapter in the U.S. and it is a key humanitarian partner and a vital participant in New York's plans and programs to help the nine million people in New York City and Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Sullivan counties prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.
The comprehensive one-day training program - the Red Cross Reserve Institute - prepares volunteers to assist ARC/ GNY during local disasters. After completing the training session, volunteers then participate in just four additional Red Cross events during the year to help sharpen their skills. These events include any combination of disaster responses, drills, meetings and additional training.
The Red Cross Reserve Institute provides an understanding of the history, mission and principles of the organization. Participants become acquainted with Red Cross disaster response procedures and polices while learning how to provide comfort for people affected by emergencies.
Red Cross Reserve Institute programs are held regularly. The Putnam office is located at The Lawlor Building, Route 311 and 164 in Patterson. To learn about and register for upcoming sessions, call 1-877- RED CROSS, extension 2068, or visit www.nyredcross.org/ reservevolunteer .
Volunteer specialists match talents, interests and availability with opportunities. Students (ages 14-18) can participate in Red Cross Youth Group activities that support all programs and also help organize assistance for children affected by homelessness and disaster. ARC/GNY provides immediate aid to more than 100,000 people affected by 3,000 emergencies a year, including fires, floods, building collapses and blackouts. For more information about volunteering, donating and training, call 1-877 REDCROSS (1-877-733- 2767), or visit www.nyredcross.org.
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