Red Cross Request for Volunteers
*** OPEN LETTER OF REQUEST ***
Dear Colleagues:
I am writing to ask for your assistance with the American Red Cross disaster response as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Nurses and other health professional volunteers are needed to support individuals affected by disasters.
One of the Futures of Nursing Report 2030 recommendations is “Preparing Nurses to Respond to Disaster and Public Health Emergencies.” This is an opportunity to receive Red Cross disaster training to provide support in community settings. Approximately nine hours of online/virtual training for Disaster Health Services Associate volunteers are required, and 5.25 nursing contact hours will be available this fall. Nurses do not work alone, and we welcome EMTs, Paramedics, MDs, DOs, and PAs to Disaster Health Services. Only licensed nurses have the full scope of practice in the RN-led model.
If you are an RN, LPN, LVN, APRN, NP, EMT, Paramedic, MD/DO, or PA with an active, unencumbered license, please consider volunteering. Services may include client assessment and provision of hands-on care per scope of license for RNs, LPNs, and LVNs. Other DHS volunteers may provide care as delegated by a licensed nurse to assist with activities of daily living, coordinate personal assistance services, provide health education, and/or assist with the replacement of medications, durable medical equipment, or consumable medical supplies. Daily observation and health screening for COVID-19 like illnesses for all shelter clients may also be required. Registered Nurses supervise all clinical tasks in an RN-led model.
Apply Now: Search for “Disaster Health Services Volunteer” in the search bar to find positions. *Note: If you are local to the disaster, shifts will be available based on client needs. If you are willing to travel to support other communities, you must be available for a minimum of 10 days, and transportation, lodging, and meals will be provided through the generosity of donors.
We care about your health and well-being and strongly recommend COVID-19 vaccination. Please review the CDC guidance, consult your health care provider and follow local guidance. Thank you for your time and support of the Red Cross humanitarian mission. Please invite friends, colleagues, and family members to also apply to volunteer as there are many different volunteer opportunities. If you have questions, please contact your local Red Cross.
With gratitude,
Linda MacIntyre
Linda MacIntyre, Ph.D., RN, PHN
American Red Cross Chief Nurse