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Pre-register to become a Disaster Response Volunteer

September 20, 2018

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Credit: Photo provided by American Red Cross Northeast Florida Chapter.

Disaster relief begins even before the storm hits. Preparing before a disaster strikes is an important part of recovery and will serve to lessen the impact on our communities. This year, United Way of Northeast Florida is enlisting volunteers ahead of time to help serve their communities during any future disaster.

United Way has recently added a Disaster Response Module to its volunteer website. Individuals can preregister as volunteers interested in active relief and recovery efforts after a disaster. This will increase efficiency in connecting volunteer support to communities during disaster recovery.

Volunteers are a significant resource for maintaining healthy communities, especially during times of crisis. Following first-responders, volunteers are the next wave of support, often assisting by serving food, removing tree limbs and facilitating shelter activities. Volunteers are more boots on the ground who make it possible for nonprofit and government agencies to serve immediate and long-term needs of affected individuals and families.

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Credit: Photo provided by American Red Cross Northeast Florida Chapter.

It is critical that we are prepared to take action should a storm or other disaster strike Northeast Florida. In 2016 and 2017, volunteers were a a major part of recovery efforts during and after Hurricanes Matthew and Irma passed. Now is the time to bring together volunteers in case our area is affected again.

You can preregister in three easy steps:

  1. Visit United Way’s volunteer website to access the Disaster Response Module.
  2. Create or update your volunteer profile and provide as many details as possible about your assets, such as medical skills, fluency in foreign languages and even access to a pick-up truck.
  3. Save the link in your favorites to access throughout the year as new volunteer opportunities are posted.

Once you register, you will be listed in our database for updates, information and training should we need volunteers that match your profile. Nonprofit organizations are also trained to use this website as a resource to post their volunteer opportunities. Be on the lookout for ways to get involved.

United Way of Northeast Florida’s volunteer portal is always available with real-time volunteer opportunities throughout the year. Make a difference now by pre-registering to volunteer today.