Cross Blog: Red Cross news and views from Oregon and beyond

Volunteer profile: Carol Gross - Mental Health Volunteer

2013-06-13T10:54:00.000-07:00

Our Volunteer Profile series offers a weekly glimpse at some of the amazing volunteers who help drive the American Red Cross mission forward. With nearly 1,200 in the state, these volunteers serve as the backbone of our organization, and we could not exist without their compassion and commitment. This series is written by our communications volunteer, Patrick Wilson

Carol Gross (standing next to the sign in her Red Cross vest) at the Red Cross headquarters in Montgomery.

Volunteering the past several years at the Red Cross has been demanding yet exciting for Carol Gross. Carol is a mental health volunteer who frequently supports disaster recovery operations. She’s been deployed on Hurricane Katrina, the Clackamas Town Center shooting, Hurricane Sandy, and the Boston Marathon explosions to name just a few. Her role is to assist victims but also to support the Red Cross staff and volunteers who are deployed. In many ways the latter is more important. While disasters are devastating for victims struggling to regain balance, relief workers have to deal with continuous demands which can have a debilitating effect. They need to be a resource for each new victim and can’t afford to be ill prepared to help those suffering from overwhelming turmoil.

Carol’s first major deployment was Hurricane Katrina which engaged over 250,000 volunteers and called for more than 11,000 mental health workers. During the first part of her deployment, Carol worked in rural Alabama with about 75 other volunteers. She had direct interaction with hurricane survivors. While demanding, she found the work rewarding and liked the experience. It was an eye-opener for her, given the extent of the destruction and the magnitude of the relief effort. She remembers in particular, one man she met. He arrived at the Red Cross Service Center with only his wallet and the clothes on his back. He had nothing else in the world. His story included a description of him watching his best friend being swept to his death in the Gulf. Carol, like many relief workers, was deeply impacted by these kinds of stories. Her Katrina experience convinced her this was work she wanted to pursue.

During the latter part of her deployment she moved to the Disaster Relief Headquarters in Montgomery, Alabama, located in an empty Kmart warehouse. The weather and living conditions were close to intolerable. While many of the volunteers were not enthusiastic about being assigned to the Headquarters, she found it to be a very positive experience. She developed a deep appreciation for the demands and rigors placed on volunteers. Many of the workers had been there for weeks and were exhausted. The situation and requirements changed quickly and dramatically. Working on a disaster site demanded so much more than daily home life and often allowed far less sleep.

About this time Carol’s role in disaster mental health (DMH) shifted. Volunteers, many of whom had been through life-altering experiences were preparing to depart. Carol and her peers helped prepare these relief workers for a much quieter and less suspenseful existence. This represented a huge shift. No more dealing with traumatized people, many of whom were struggling to just make it from day-to-day. The volunteers would now face a world that would not understand the drama of their experience. They would need to find people who could provide a realistic sounding board as they unwound from their own trauma. Carol and her DMH colleagues provided information and support to assist in the transformation from the often-intense disaster relief response to the more mundane life back home.

Volunteers thinking of signing on for disaster relief need to think carefully about the demands they will likely face. While a support system can be found to help deal with their residual emotions, volunteers need to ensure they are built for these kind of experiences. Carol thrives in these settings.

Carol has been on 16 deployments since 2005. And she reminds other volunteers this kind of challenge is not for everybody. Carefully consider your physical and psychological capabilities. The work can be far more demanding than your back-home routine. Support is available but you need to know what kind of support you need and who can best provide it.

If you need to contact Carol Gross, you can reach her at 503 641 3731(h)/503 997 4137(c) or via e-mail at
Carol.Gross@redcross.org

Red Cross Float Ready to Light the Night at Annual Starlight Parade

2013-05-31T10:29:00.001-07:00

For the sixth year, the Red Cross is participating in the Starlight Parade, also known as the Portland Rose Festival's brightest tradition. To learn about this Red Cross tradition, our very own Customer Service Specialist Jessie Robertson sheds some light on what it's like to represent the Red Cross at such an iconic event.

This past November while watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, a friend and I got into a discussion with an exchange student. He didn't understand what the big deal was about parades and why so many people would wait hours to see someone simply “walk by.”

We tried in earnest to explain the excitement of seeing giant balloons on Thanksgiving, talented Irish dancers on St. Patrick’s Day, and hearing the echoing of marching bands. We tried to sway him to see the talent and pure balance required by people dancing on a simultaneously moving float, and the joy in watching them perform. After ten minutes of listing various holidays and activities that warranted a parade, he paused and said simply, “Wow, you have a lot of parades here.”

In the end, we conceded that a parade is really just an excellent way for a city to come together and have a party, so it seems only fitting that this year’s Rose Festival theme is Portland’s Party. This Saturday marks my favorite event of the festival, the Starlight Parade and my third year as a marcher for the Red Cross. As the sun sets, not only do the floats start to glow, but the city does as well.

For the first time in three years, the Red Cross will have a float on Saturday and we’re taking a page from Portland’s own vintage shops by highlighting historical Red Cross uniforms. Ranging from the 1920s to the present, each outfit showcases the style of the time. It’s interesting to see how the uniforms have changed throughout the decades, but the mission of the Red Cross has remained the same—to be there to help those in need.

Parades serve as a fun reminder to celebrate where we are now, while creating a tradition and remembering holidays of the past. Those memories might be why we have as many parades as we do, a fact I will share with my exchange student friend.

In the case of the Red Cross, this year’s float is a reminder that we will be there to help you party through the decades…let’s just hope that the blue jumpsuits from the 1970s don’t make a comeback!

P.S. After testing Christmas lights this week, I can tell you our float will definitely be glowing. If you feel inspired to vote for us as a fan favorite, watch us this Saturday and vote for number 52!

-Jessie Robertson

Volunteer profile: Carl Schellenger - International Tracing Services

2013-05-23T15:17:00.000-07:00

Last week we started introducing you to some of the Red Cross volunteers in Oregon who help drive our mission forward. Through these glimpses into their work, you will see the wonderful services they provide to people and communities affected by disaster. The profiles are written by our communications volunteer, Patrick Wilson.

Many Red Cross volunteers help people who are experiencing a disaster. Carl Schellenger works with people separated as a result of a disaster, either natural or manmade. This can be anything from a hurricane or tsunami, to a war or a rebellion. Carl works for the American Red Cross International Tracing Services, assisting victims in other countries to reconnect with family and loved ones located in the United States.

International Tracing Services will assist victims if the individual they are seeking (1) is a family member (usually immediate family), (2) was separated as a result of a disaster, (3) cannot be located through normal means (phone, mail, etc.), (4) is not a U.S. citizen (citizens can get assistance from our State Department.). Usually Carl works with individuals who need to get a message to somebody (e.g., somebody seeking to reestablish contact); assists with welfare checks (e.g., an elderly person or child who has lost touch and is not able to initiate contact); or helps retrace somebody disconnected as the result of prior conflicts (e.g., survivors of World War II). Carl cannot help if two people have just drifted apart; the separation must be the result of a disaster.

As can be imagined, his job provides lots of challenge. He must first ensure the request is valid, but actually locating the lost party can make finding the Lost Ark look like child’s play. The search can require months or even years. This is no job for inpatient types or volunteers seeking quick success. Some complicating factors include searching through a large refugee camp with incomplete records or dealing with tribal elders with their own requirements about how things need to be done. And even after the lost soul is located, they may not want to reestablish contact.

Fortunately, Carl is not totally on his own. He gets assistance from other Red Cross representatives, found in most other countries. In some cases the search can go on for so long or situations can change so dramatically, that the trail goes cold, sometimes more than once. Carl and his predecessors have been trying to assist an 80-year-old survivor of World War II for nearly 60 years, but some of the contacts were from Belarus, a country that no longer exists. According to Carl, “At any point in time I can have several open cases in the office.”

Carl, like most volunteers, also works in other areas of the Red Cross in Oregon. He is a Disaster Assistance Team responder, does some public speaking often helping others understand his tracing service, and periodically assist with training. He joined Red Cross three years ago and says, “I love working at the Red Cross. Everybody you meet is smiling and so nice.” Still, his advice to new volunteers is, “You volunteered, don’t wait to be asked how you can help! Offer your assistance wherever help appears to be needed.”

If you come across Carl, you might want to ask him about some of his current searches or even, his cold cases.

SAF (Service to Armed Forces) Participates In Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program

2013-05-17T11:50:00.003-07:00

Armed Forces Day occurs annually on the third Saturday of May and celebrates our nation's brave soldiers. To celebrate, Oregon Red Cross SAF Managers Donna Winker and Linda Jager wrote a blog post about the Oregon Red Cross' Services to Armed Forces program. We would also like to thank Donna and Linda for their tireless efforts to help local military members and their families.

SAF Manager Donna Winkler

During the past six months, the Oregon Red Cross' Service to Armed Forces (SAF) program, with the support of volunteers throughout the state, has participated at 10 Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program events. This initiative, under the Department of Defense, focuses on the well-being of National Guard and Reserve members, their families and communities, by connecting them with resources throughout the deployment cycle.

Families back home count on the American Red Cross to provide training and share resources to help them cope with the challenges of modern military life.

Reintegration during post-deployment is a critical time for members of the Guard and Reserve, as they often live far from military installations and members of their units. The Red Cross plays a critical role in outreach activities and briefing service members and their families on emergency communications, providing information and referral, info on courses and workshops, such as “Coping with Deployments” and “Reconnection Workshops,” and many other Red Cross programs that already exist.

For example, on January 5, 2013, SAF Manager Donna Winkler briefed a group of Marine pilots at the Evergreen Air and Space Museum on our “Get to Know Us Before You Need Us,” program. Other such events included a post-deployment Yellow Ribbon for the Navy. Red Cross volunteer Larry Wiedenhoft took part in a joint Yellow Ribbon event at Salishan Resort for approximately 150 Air National Guard members.

To date, our summer calendar already has another 10 events to plan for, this time extending to the southern and northeastern counties of the Oregon Region. One such event is a first-ever Yellow Ribbon event planned exclusively for 150 women military members the weekend of May 15-17 in Bend, OR. Red Cross volunteer Claudia Vangstad of Roseburg, OR, will staff the event.

We are pleased to be a part of the Red Cross SAF program, which is unwavering in its commitment to members of the US Military. Red Cross workers and volunteers use advanced communication technologies to link, through their Emergency Communications Centers, messages to members of the military wherever in the world they happen to be.

Volunteer Spotlight - Melinda Sherrieb

2013-05-16T09:34:00.001-07:00

Melinda (Mindy) Sherrieb, a Baker City native and long-time Red Cross volunteer, was surprised when she was honored with a state-wide Special Citation for Exceptional Volunteer Service at the American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter Awards ceremony on May 8. “Surprised! Yes, because there are just so many other exceptional volunteers. I never thought I would be selected.”

Mindy has spent her life in disaster response services, first fighting fires and now teaching others how to best operate in crisis situations. She worked for many years as a wild land firefighter for Oregon’s Department of Forestry in Klamath Falls. After so many years doing, turning to teaching just came naturally. Mindy wanted to put what she had learned to work by sharing with others. And, one of her personal mantras is to continue to develop and use the skills she’s honed throughout her life. Her mom had already laid down a trail, volunteering with Red Cross in disaster response and preparedness. This path was reinforced by another of Melinda’s strong personal beliefs. “Government can only do so much, at some point citizens need to step in and serve the community.”

For Melinda that means helping others to understand the actions needed in disaster situations and assisting them to develop the necessary response skills. Besides, she loves helping people. One of her most meaningful moments as a Red Cross Volunteer was when she learned that one of her students used the training she had received to save a life. “That was huge!”

When Mindy first volunteered her services to the Red Cross, it took a while for the organization to benefit from her potential. In the early 1980s, the Oregon Red Cross still wasn’t fully utilizing the value volunteers could bring to the party. But after a time, the tremendous wealth of talent available became obvious. And Mindy, like many others, was pressed into service. Mindy, who comes across as fairly assertive, doesn’t believe in throwing up her hands if the organization isn’t doing what is needed. Her advice to new volunteers is, “If the system isn’t giving what’s needed for you or for those we serve, step in and make the system work. She cited a delightful example of this when she was supporting the Hurricane Trina relief efforts. It seemed that no desirable accommodations could be found for a dignitary visiting from another country, who wanted to learn from the work being done by the Red Cross. “We found him a place with one of the Red Cross camps. And that is where he really needed to be!”

Let’s all join in congratulating Mindy for her award, her great contribution and especially, her years of service.

Volunteer Spotlight is a new series written by Communications Volunteer Patrick Wilson. To learn more about the series or recommend a volunteer to highlight, you can reach him at bedfordguy@live.com.

Oregon Trail Chapter Recognizes Volunteers

2013-05-03T12:50:00.002-07:00

Last night the Oregon Trail Chapter put all business aside to celebrate and honor some of our amazing volunteers. During the course of the evening, we ate, mingled and celebrated some major accomplishments from the past year. Volunteer awarded from the local area included:

First-Year Volunteer Award
This award is given to new volunteers who exhibit an extraordinary level of involvement or activity in ensuring Red Cross service delivery in the communities we serve. Volunteers who receive this award demonstrate a dedication to the principles of the Red Cross Movement and the mission of the American Red Cross.

And the winners are …

Theresa North
Dean Peterson
Julie Woodbury

Service Award
Program service awards recognize individuals and/or groups who have improved Red Cross services and programs through their volunteer positions. Service performance demonstrates a dedication to the principles of the International Red Cross movement and to the American Red Cross Mission Statement for the following lines of service

Youth Services - Ruhika Prasad and Grace Rebenstein

And the winners are …
Youth Services - Ruhika Prasad and Grace Rebenstein
International Services - Carl Schellenger
Disaster Services - Doug Follett
Disaster Services - Jamie Follett
Disaster Services - Tom Jellum
Disaster Services - Kris Wolfgram

The Dave Garrison White Hat Award

White Hat Award - Bob Cozzie (with Cara Sloman)

The White Hat Award is given for “all-around good folks” who work in multiple services. These volunteers carry out diverse tasks and duties in a manner which reflects positively on the organization and helps the chapter achieve its mission. They have a willingness to work on an array of chapter services, are generally available on short notice and willing to pitch in as needed.

And the winners are …

Adele Pelletier
Bob Cozzie
Larry Wiedenhoft

Special Citation for Exceptional Volunteer Service
The Special Citation for Exceptional Volunteer Service honors a volunteer whose sustained performance over a period of several years has exceeded the volunteer's original commitment to the American Red Cross. Nominees in this award category must have demonstrated exceptional performance and extensive personal commitment to a specific service or project that has contributed to the improvement or expansion of the American Red Cross services to the community.

And the winners are …

Judi Colson
Kathleen Elliott
Cooper Herr
Margie Simmons
Erica Welch
Lynda Holm
Mindy Sherrib

Volunteer Leadership Award
The Volunteer Leadership Award is presented to Red Cross volunteers who have sustained superior and outstanding leadership service at the local or beyond-the-unit level, with or on behalf of the American Red Cross. These awardees have demonstrated the following:

Consistent superior and outstanding leadership at the local or regional level which includes superior performance in meeting increasingly challenging responsibilities
Extraordinary commitment to the American Red Cross in the performance of their role
Extraordinary results in advancing the organization’s goal of achieving total diversity of our people, programs and services

And the winners are …

Janet Bailey
Donna Winkler
Carol Gross

Check out all of our photos from the event!

Red Cross Day at the State Capitol

2013-04-26T14:52:00.001-07:00

by Kim Elizabeth Manning, Red Cross volunteer

Ready to serve!
Upon approaching the Oregon State Capitol Building on Thursday, April 25, it was obvious that the Red Cross was up to something. On this sunny morning, two Red Cross emergency response vehicles – a mobile feeding truck and a mobile kitchen – offered coffee and snacks to members of the legislature and visitors as they entered the Capitol building. A few people thought that maybe the building was experiencing an emergency situation. Thankfully, no. Some thought we were hosting a blood drive. No, not today. Others didn’t even notice us. Until … we approached them.

Prepping for our meetings
In teams of two, nearly 60 volunteers and staff members of Red Cross chapters throughout the state met personally with 70 state legislators – often their own representatives and senators – to talk about the American Red Cross in Oregon and the services we provide to their constituents. We explained how we help, train, and support the people in their districts.

Steve Eberlein (center) and Vince Aarts meet with Sen. Chip Shields.

We talked up our new multi-year initiative called Get Ready! Its goal is to directly increase the emergency and disaster preparedness as well as the resilience of Oregonians for major disasters, such as the Big One that many don’t want to talk about because it’s too scary to even think about. We also let them know that we support the Oregon Seismic Safety Policy Advisory Committee (OSSPAC) in the Oregon Resilience Plan and how they can help strengthen the plan by addressing the other half of resiliency – the citizen component. We asked them to step up to include developing a preparedness curriculum for K-12, conducting statewide public drills, and requiring individual preparedness for local and state government employees and their families.

Nathan Keffer (left) and Tod Thayer meet with Sen. Chris Edwards.

At the end of our 15-minute meeting, we asked our representatives and senators for two things:
· Commit to putting together a personal/family disaster preparedness kit and evacuation plan, and
· Communicate the importance of preparedness and community resiliency a priority while they are in office.

A few of the state legislators took our message of emergency and disaster preparedness right to the Senate or House floor, sharing it with their colleagues. While a few had disaster kits and evacuation plans, many did not, and told us that they were glad we met with them to remind them to do it. Some offered to post links on their websites. One encouraged us to present at his town hall meetings. Another expressed interest in joining one of the chapter board of directors. What an awesome day for the American Red Cross in Oregon!

In the building’s West Galleria, Red Crossers interacted with people of all ages who were visiting the Capitol – discussing emergency and disaster preparedness; promoting and showing off our Red Cross apps, specifically our First Aid app; and demonstrating hands-only CPR.

Left: Steve Sirkin demos CPR to Capitol visitor.Right: Karyn Johnson-Dagenais demonstrates how to download Red Cross apps to the Saunders family.

As a disaster relief volunteer, financial supporter, blood donor and blood services volunteer who is also trained in CPR and First Aid – all for which I am most proud – I was honored to participate in Red Cross Day at the Oregon State Capitol. What a lovely way to honor our state’s Red Cross volunteers this week, National Volunteer Week, by giving us the opportunity to serve as citizen lobbyists.

Using teamwork - and red vests - to make our mark at the state capitol!

Special thanks to Red Cross volunteer David O'Conner for capturing the day in photos!

I’ve Got a Golden Ticket!

2013-04-12T14:58:00.002-07:00

In Roald Dahl’s classic book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Willy Wonka hides a Golden Ticket in five chocolate bars which are distributed worldwide. Charlie finds one of these golden tickets and wins passage into Willy Wonka's factory and a lifetime supply of confections. Guess what? We’ve got some Golden Tickets of our very own.

Now, our Golden Ticket holder won’t mingle with Oompa Loompas, cruise down a chocolate river, or chew experimental gum. However, our lucky Golden Ticket holder will have an opportunity to view South African wildlife, cruise down the Willamette River on a luxurious sailboat, and have enough food and drink to keep them full for a year.

These icons represent the auction packages available.

Our Golden Tickets are being sold as part of our upcoming fundraiser, Surviving in Style, which takes place Thursday, April 18 at Pure Space in Portland. For our friends who can’t attend, Golden Tickets are a wonderful opportunity to join in the fun and try your hand at winning one of our celebrity-inspired auction prizes valued at thousands of dollars. We are selling a limited number of Golden Tickets (75 total) at $100 each, and they can be purchased here.

Be sure to view our ten auction packages that include a behind-the-vine winery tour, an African safari, gift certificates the area’s best restaurants, tickets to cultural hotspots and much, much more. But what if you pay $100 and don’t win? Then you’ve made an incredible donation to the American Red Cross for which we are very grateful.

Best of luck!

A Word from Tyler

2013-03-29T09:26:00.003-07:00

Tyler Grant is a one-time AmeriCorps volunteer turned Readiness Specialist extraordinaire. He knows just about everything there is to know about disaster preparedness, and if he doesn’t know the answer, he’ll find out and get back to you.

Disasters can get pretty messy pretty quickly and, like it or not, “nature” may call in the midst of less than ideal circumstances. In the interest of discretion I’ll not be too graphic here but instead direct you to the resources of a group called PHLUSH. They’ve gathered the lessons learned from others who have been through disasters before and know how to handle . . . um . . . well let’s keep calling it nature.

Their Christchurch Twin No-Mix Emergency Toilet is said to manage both stink and germs. Click on their link to learn more: www.phlush.org/emergencysan/intro-to-emergency-toilets/

-Tyler Grant

Shelter Simulation Training

2013-03-20T13:44:00.003-07:00

Red Cross Response Specialist Curtis Peetz helped co-host a shelter simulation training March 9 at Talent Elementary School in Jackson County. Read what Curtis has to say about the importance of shelter simulation exercises and what people should know before a shelter opens.

Q: How many shelters have you worked in?
A: I have supported nearly a dozen disaster shelters. When a disaster occurs, I receive notification and support the sheltering process by identifying potential shelter facilities, providing technical guidance to the on-scene shelter leadership, and coordinating response activities.

Q: What exactly is a shelter simulation?

A: A shelter simulation is an opportunity for volunteers to practice shelter operations skills and processes in a low-stress environment where people can ask questions and receive instruction. During a shelter simulation, we provide actual shelter supplies and equipment for individuals to get hands-on practice.

Q:Why do we need to do this?

A: There are a number of reasons that we do shelter simulations. 1) To provide our staff with hands-on practice so that they are better prepared to perform the activities when a disaster occurs. 2) To give our volunteers an opportunity to experience real-world challenges they will be facing during a disaster without the stress of a disaster. 3) It allows the Red Cross an opportunity to collaborate with other response organizations (such as the Medical Reserve Corps) to address specific needs of shelter residents. 4) Most importantly, it is fun!

Q: What is biggest misconception about running/opening a shelter?
A: One of the largest misconceptions about sheltering is that the community thinks that Red Cross designates shelter facilities.This isn't the case in Oregon. We have a list of potential shelter facilities that we may call and ask permission to use as a disaster shelter. The facilities we use as shelters are not owned by the Red Cross, they are facilities such as churches, community centers, or in some cases schools. When the Red Cross asks to use a facility, the facility owner may say no if there is a conflict. It is really important that individuals and families develop a disaster plan, have supplies, and stay informed about how they can prepare and respond when a disaster occurs.

Q: I have heard that the Red Cross doesn’t shelter pets, what should I do?
A: In most communities, the Red Cross works with animal welfare groups to ensure that shelter residents have a place for their pets. This varies in chapters across the country so always be thinking ahead. C heck with family members or friends to see if they can care for your animals if you are displaced from your home. If you cannot find someone to take care of your animals and you are required to evacuate, evacuate your animals with you. As you developyour disaster supplies kit, make sure you include supplies for your animal(s) as well. When you arrive at a Red Cross shelter with animals let the shelter staff know that you have animals so that they can contact groups such as animal services or other agencies that have the expertise and trained staff to shelter the animals.

Thanks, Curtis!

Next Generation ERV Prototype

2013-03-18T15:19:00.000-07:00

This afternoon an emergency response vehicle (ERV) prototype rolled into the Oregon Trail Chapter's parking lot causing many oohh’s and aahh’s from the staff members who gathered outside for its arrival.

Altogether, the Red Cross has more than 320 ERVs in 49 states. These vehicles, used to dispense food and beverages to people affected by a disaster, resemble a cross between an ambulance and a small moving van. This new prototype is being tested to replace and potentially increase our current fleet while saving millions of dollars. Nearly half of the Red Cross ERVs are more than 10 years old, and the newer models will cut down on maintenance costs and make replacing parts much easier. In addition to a sleek, new look, the prototype includes Wi-Fi, improved GPS capabilities, improved maneuverability and a host of updates that will make meal serving more efficient.

The ERV has come a long way over the years. In 1898, American Red Cross Founder Clara Barton used a wagon as an ambulance for her work on the battlefield. During WWII, the Red Cross operated clubmobiles to support U.S. servicemen. Later the Red Cross relied on converted bread trucks, station wagons and pickup trucks to deliver meals and snacks after disasters. In 1984, the Red Cross began to standardize its fleet into the ambulance design we see today. While the new model is still a prototype, keep your eyes open for the next generation of ERVs.

AmeriCorps Spotlight: Vince Aarts

2013-03-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

Did you know that approximately 800,000 people have served as AmeriCorps members since 1994? As we wrap up AmeriCorps week, we want to thank all of our AmeriCorps volunteers who have served and are currently serving. We’ve also asked another one of our Red Cross members to share his experiences, which we have copied below. Enjoy and have a wonderful weekend!

After 12 years as a wild-land and all risk firefighter, I decided in 2011 that it was time to “put down the pulaski” and consider a change in careers. While I enjoyed the thrill and hard work of tactical firefighting, I had always imagined finding myself working on a more strategic scale. As a result I began graduate classes at Portland State University in public administration and set out to seek an opportunity that could get me some much needed experience in emergency management.

When I first saw the opening at the American Red Cross via the AmeriCorps program, I knew right away it could be an excellent opportunity for me. The support and development opportunities that AmeriCorps provide have been instrumental in helping me to understand the complexities and realities of my chosen field. Additionally, this service year has provided the flexibility and even the encouragement to pursue my academic career simultaneously.

My assigned task has been to coordinate and help to build the Shelter Team concept. The shelter teams are composed of Red Cross volunteers who train together to be prepared to quickly provide mass care to their neighbors when there is a disaster. It has become a constant source of amazement just how willing these volunteers are to sacrifice their time and energy to help people under the worst conditions.

Perhaps one of the most powerful experiences I have had with AmeriCorps was the first fire I responded to as a member of the American Red Cross Disaster Action Team. That day a large apartment fire had burnt out six units and displaced 15 people. I cannot forget the young man who had escaped the fire with no physical injury but was all the same deeply traumatized. The fire had started in his apartment, and he ran out of the building with nothing but a pair of pajama pants on.

At that moment that was the only thing that he owned in the entire world, just those pair of pants. I will never be able to adequately describe the sensation of loss and confusion in his face. That loss was combined with the guilt that the fire may have somehow been his fault.

The Red Cross volunteers immediately began to restore this man’s sense of equilibrium. Calmly and confidently clothes and shoes were purchased for him to wear, he was provided with a hotel room for the night, some money for food and other essentials and Disaster Mental Health nurses came in to help him to cope with the powerful emotional issues he faced. By the time the team left, the young man was firmly on the road to recovery.

I was so proud that day that AmeriCorps had provided me with the opportunity to join with the Red Cross and provide such desperately needed help to a fellow Oregonian. It was a powerful lesson in humility and a real chance satisfy my desire to help others. My AmeriCorps service year will, subsequently, be an experience I never forget.

Light falls from the sky

2013-03-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

This article is part of Tricia Stone’s “What I Like About You” series of practical advice on preparedness tools.

In my last post, I wrote about all the different kinds of flashlights I keep in my preparedness kits and how to safely store their batteries. What if you didn’t need batteries for a light source? Well, two designers in England have created the Gravity Light. This light is powered by falling weight. It was designed for use in underdeveloped countries where kerosene is the only light source for economically disadvantaged villagers. Kerosene is very dangerous, causes fires, noxious fumes and is a continuous outlay of money for villagers. However, the Gravity Light will only cost $5.00 to own and the operation is free. (Select this link for more info and a quick video clip).

The device is attached overhead; the bag is filled with sand or gravel. Lift the bag up to the device and let go. As the weight slowly falls- designed to fall over 30 minutes- energy is generated and the LED light shines. They are also developing a newer version that can also power small electronic devices.

Their next phase is to select 1,000 people in villages around the world to test the device in real conditions and provide feedback to the designers. After they make any needed corrections or improvements, the lights will be available to the villages.

I believe that in the very near future the Gravity Light will be available for us to purchase, and I can get another light in my preparedness kit!

AmeriCorps Spotlight: Karly Workman

2013-03-12T13:10:00.001-07:00

Each year during AmeriCorps Week, the Oregon Red Cross recognizes the commitment of AmeriCorps members by highlighting the extraordinary impact these individuals make in our communities. AmeriCorps members have played, and continue to play, a major role in driving the Red Cross mission forward. To highlight their work, we’ve asked two of our members to share their experiences. First off is a message from our very own Youth Preparedness Coordinator Karly Workman.

Karly and Disaster Dog teach an Irvington Elementary School kindergarten class about earthquake safety.

I have always had an interest in AmeriCorps after serving two, three month summer terms back in Colorado. However, my AmeriCorps experience in Colorado was extremely different than my AmeriCorps experience today. The two terms I served in Colorado consisted of camping for ten days in the Rocky Mountains, building trails and fences, and cutting down pine beetle infected trees. Currently, I am serving as a Youth Preparedness Coordinator at the Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter. In my past AmeriCorps term I was used to spending 10 days disconnected to the rest of the world, without using any piece of technology. Now, I currently find myself unable to do any work without my computer and cell phone. Instead of building trails and fences, I am building high school Red Cross clubs. And instead of cutting down trees, I am cutting down the number of unprepared Oregonians.

At the end of the fiscal year, the preparedness team at the Red Cross aims to prepare 25,000 Oregonians. In order to achieve this ambitious goal, I give ALERT (Awareness Learning and Emergency Response Training)presentations to elementary schools around Portland. There are three different ALERT presentations, Disaster Dog (earthquake safety), Cool Cat (fire safety), and Ready Rabbit (winter safety), which prepare students and encourage them to practice preparedness with their families.

I have always enjoyed working with little kids, and I find it incredibly rewarding when the kids are able to tell me something they didn’t know before the presentation. For some of the classes, I am able to go back three times, and give them all three of the presentations. I am amazed that the children are always able to remember me from the previous presentation, which is sometimes weeks in the past, and tell me exactly what they learned. Some of the students are even very excited to tell me about how they practiced preparedness with their parents and family at home.

On top of giving ALERT presentations, I manage the high school Red Cross clubs. One of the main activities of the high school Red Cross clubs is having a Preparedness Week. Preparedness Week aims to prepare every student and staff member at that school. Preparedness Week allows the club members to be creative and innovative, while emphasizing the importance of preparedness.

Even though I am not living in the forest and cutting down trees, I have found this AmeriCorps experience to be most rewarding and impactful. I am constantly learning something new, building my personal and professional skills, and reaching communities and students through the message of preparedness.

A Culture of Preparedness

2013-03-11T16:50:00.001-07:00

Today marks the two-year anniversary of the magnitude 9.0 earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan. It’s estimated that nearly 19,000 people died or went missing due to the disaster and more than 300,000 people were displaced. While the recovery effort is ongoing, it’s been reported that loss of life and property could have been much worse had it not been for the widespread preparedness efforts before the disaster.

A culture of preparedness (or lack thereof) was the topic of conversation this morning at the Port of Portland. Earthquake and tsunami hazard experts formally presented the Oregon Resilience Plan. The plan was developed when Oregon legislators asked the Oregon Seismic Safety Policy Commission (OSSPAC) to draft a plan to help prepare Oregon for a potential large earthquake and tsunami.

The report found that Oregon is far from resilient to the impacts of a great Cascadia earthquake and tsunami. Available studies estimate that fatalities ranging from 1,250 to more than 10,000 due to the combined effects of earthquake and tsunami; tens of thousands of buildings destroyed; more than $30 billion in direct and indirect economic losses (close to one-fifth of Oregon’s gross state product); and more than one million dump truck loads of debris.

This isn’t meant to be a doomsday report (or a doomsday blog posting for that matter), but this information does reinforce the need for Oregonians to take steps to prepare themselves for a disaster. What’s great is that the Red Cross is here to help you along every step of the way. To start, consider taking one of the free preparedness classes we’re offering this month.

6-7 p.m. on March 26 in Portland
6-7 p.m. on March 26 in Salem
6-7 p.m. on March 28 in Eugene

Contact 503-528-5783 or ryan.mcgoldrick2@redcross.org (Portland event), or 503-585-5414 or nathan.keffer@redcross.org (Salem, Eugene events). For additional disaster preparedness information, visit www.redcross.org/oregon.

Contest: A blast from the past!

2013-03-08T16:39:00.003-08:00

When doing a quick search on eBay for "vintage Red Cross" I found this lovely image titled "1917 Nurse with Dog"

As an organization that’s been around since 1881, that tiny red cross has imprinted its way onto countless pins, cups, shirts, napkins, flasks – you name it, it's probably been there. To explore the Red Cross's rich history during Red Cross Month, we thought it would be fun to ask our readers, “who has the oldest or most unusual Red Cross relic from the past?” A lapel pin you inherited from your great grandmother, a vintage nurse's outfit your kids use for Halloween, the tie-dye Red Cross T-shirt from the 60’s? If you think you have something to share, please e-mail me @ julie.miller@redcross.org. You need to include 1. what it is, 2. how it came into your possession, and 3. an image I can post online.

At the end of the month, we will announce the winner and post the top historic finds. The winner will receive a Red Cross goodie bag full of not-so-vintage Red Cross swag. Happy hunting!

Beam me up! (A Red Cross Science Lesson)

2013-03-07T16:01:00.000-08:00

“If the whole world catches on fire, at least we know that the satellites are safe.” These are the sorts of things Red Cross volunteers say when they are showing off new technology. Today, several staff members were invited to learn how to set up a high-tech satellite dish. The dish, which fits inside your average suitcase, is a vast improvement over the past technology that filled an entire FedEx van. To learn more about this dish, I asked our volunteers the following.

Q: So … what is it?
A: High-speed Internet satellite dish

Q: How does it work?
A: It transmits Internet data up to several satellite dishes.

Q: How does the Red Cross use this?
A: During a major disaster, the Red Cross may need to open an operations center at the disaster site. This dish provides Internet access that allows hundreds of people to work at once using the same dish. It makes communications necessary to work in a large-scale disaster.

Q: Why is this cool?
A: In the past when there was a disaster, the equipment was large and cumbersome (and/or we had to rely entirely on radios and set up phone lines). Now we just have a box to carry with us on emergencies. And once we set it up, we're ready to communicate!

Tomorrow’s Leaders

2013-03-06T14:58:00.000-08:00

Lincoln High School students (left to right) Mallika Sharabu, Grace Rubenstein, Ruhika Prasad and Madison High School student Phoebe Huynh get ready to attend a club-to-club connection workshop.

Last Saturday, the Oregon Trail Chapter of the Red Cross was abuzz with 38 high school students from around the state to attend the annual Red Cross Youth Leadership Conference. Students representing Red Cross Clubs from Franklin, Benson, Lincoln, Grant, Madison, Liberty, Silverton, South Eugene, Willamette and Clackamas High Schools attended.

“It was a great way to get students together to share their different experiences,” said Red Cross Youth Coordinator Karly Workman. “Club members gained valuable knowledge and skills to engage the community, and to give back to their schools.”

I was invited to speak as part of one of four presentations that spanned blood services, preparedness and CPR. I talked about Red Cross communications and was pleased that my classroom not only stayed awake, but were also engaged in the topic (despite being the last presentation of the day).
It's wonderful to know there is an eager, compassionate generation of Red Crossers standing by to take the ranks.

Nate Saunders and Kim Schlosser, blood donor recruitment staff, talk about blood services, giving blood, and blood drives at schools.

Happy Red Cross Month (and Happy Friday)!

2013-03-01T11:29:00.001-08:00

I was trying to find the perfect post to celebrate Red Cross Month, and I can think of nothing more appropriate than the President Barack Obama proclamation, copied in full below. Enjoy, and have a good weekend!

SINCE OUR NATION'S FOUNDING, seasons of trial and bitter hardship have revealed a core belief we share as Americans: that when we see our neighbors in need, we will always stand united in helping them get back on their feet. This month, we honor men and women who deliver relief to communities around the world, and we renew the compassionate spirit that continues to keep our country strong and our people safe.

The American Red Cross has proudly upheld a commitment to service that spans generations. Witness to the scars left by civil war, Clara Barton founded the organization in 1881 as a way to lift up the suffering -- from warriors wounded in the line of duty to families displaced by damaging storms. In the years since, countless service and relief organizations have joined the American Red Cross in realizing that noble vision.

We saw the depth of their dedication just 4 months ago, when the sweeping devastation of Hurricane Sandy put millions of Americans in harm's way. In darkness and danger, thousands of professionals and volunteers stepped up to serve. They secured supplies and shelter when our people needed them most. And when times were tough, they proved that America is tougher because we all pull together.

That sense of resolve has seen our Nation through our greatest challenges, and the conviction that we are our brothers' and sisters' keepers will always remain at the heart of who we are as a people. As we reflect on the ties that bind us together, let us pay tribute to humanitarian organizations working here at home and around the world, and let us rededicate ourselves to service in the months ahead.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America and Honorary Chairman of the American Red Cross, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 2013 as American Red Cross Month. I encourage all Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities, and by supporting the work of service and relief organizations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Variety is the spice of lights!

2013-02-28T16:39:00.002-08:00

Flashlights for your preparedness kit

I am a "worst scenario" kind of person. Over 20 years in the fire service, and I have seen some terrible accidents, fires and preventable tragedies. My friends would cringe when I came to their parties and then started giving their house a fire-safety inspection. It was just second nature to look for all the dangers. But now that I am retired, I try to think of them as thoughtful ideas on how to think ahead and be prepared.

Remember that the flashlight may be the most important item in your kit during an emergency, especially at nighttime. Make sure you store it on top of your kit. Think about what you might need first then stack items in that order.

I like flashlights, lots of different flashlights. Some people have a thing for shoes or hats …

What I like about you - Different types of flashlights

Small penlight - With a lanyard I can wear it around my neck. I can also turn it on when working on small tasks so my hands are free.

Small headlamp - I can wear if I am putting up a tent or cooking dinner on a camp stove.

Crank flashlight - A back up to the back up. I cranked my flashlight shown for 2 minutes and it stayed on for over an hour.

Stand up flashlights – These offer good light without having to hold the light.

What I like about you - Good batteries stored correctly

Remember, flashlights in your preparedness kit may not be used for months or even years. Don’t buy cheap batteries. You want that flashlight to work when you need it the most.

Store your new batteries out of the flashlight. Otherwise they may discharge early. Or worse, they become corroded and ruin your flashlight and become a hazardous waste site in your kit!

Keep them in the hard plastic shell they came in, but carefully cut the packing open now when you are not in a hurry. Tape the shell back up so you can open them easily without scrounging for a knife or pair of scissors in the dark because you can’t get your darn batteries in the flashlight to find the scissors!

If you buy a large amount of batteries, divide them for each flashlight. Then tape them side by side so their contact ends can’t touch. Then put them in a zip-lock bag and write the expiration date on the bag.

My advice is buy good gear and take care of it properly. Then it will take care of you when you need it the most.

Until next time - stay safe and get prepared!

-Tricia

Infographic Friday!

2013-02-22T15:24:00.003-08:00

I've read studies that say Fridays are the best day to send e-mails because people are sitting around twiddling their thumbs waiting for the weekend. I also read studies that say that Fridays are the worst days to send messages because who wants to read a blog when you can mentally outline your weekend agenda? Regardless, I’ll keep this post simple.

I’m heading to Bend, Oregon, next week to give a presentation on social media, and as I was putting together my presentation, I thought, “this is a really interesting infographic, I wonder if other people might find this interesting, too?” So here you go. Enjoy and have a wonderful weekend.

“What I like about you”

2013-02-20T15:01:00.002-08:00

This is the first in a series of blog posts called “What I like about you.” My name is Tricia Stone, and I have been in the emergency business for a few decades, and would like to offer some insights into preparedness gear. Let’s not swerve into “how old are you” thoughts, but if you must know, the Romantics released the song, “What I like about you” when I graduated from high school. The words aren't much, but it’s got a good beat and you can dance to it.

I have been a volunteer with the Red Cross since 2009. I retired from the San Diego Fire Department in 2008 after 21 years of service. From my experience, I've learned that we need to be prepared for anything: fires, floods, winter ice storms, tornadoes, Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake, aliens, and zombies … if you are prepared for all of that, then you are pretty much good to go!

In my first “What I like about you” post, I want to focus on flashlights. When I was a firefighter, I had three different lights on my turnout gear. I had one light attached to my helmet, one clipped to the front of my jacket and one on my side cargo pants pocket. When you are in a bad environment, you want back ups to back ups.

Let’s talk about flashlights for the home. I looked at many different kinds but ended up choosing Etόn American Red Cross Blackout Buddy flashlight. I have six in my house: in bedrooms, hallways and even the bathroom.

What I like about you:

It is a low-profile plug in light. It is always charged and ready to go.
It can also serve as a night light. The slide switch on the side of the light turns it into night light.
You know where it is because it is plugged into outlet, not hidden in a junk drawer or under the bed. So you walk by it everyday. You get familiar with where it is.
It is bright enough to get the work done, or find your super bright light, or find your Go Bag in the dark and get out of the house safely.
LED means minimal electrical draw while it is plugged into outlet

Last night my two dogs went crazy barking in the back yard. I grabbed my flashlight off the wall and headed out back. I never did find what they were after - I suspect a cat - but they were insistent an intruder had wandered through our fenced yard. I was at least prepared for that!

Next time: Flashlights for your Go Bag

Tricia Stone

A Safe Return

2013-02-19T09:30:00.001-08:00

The drive was painless. The cabin was exactly what we expected. The dog was well-behaved. The weather was perfect. And the only minor hiccup was getting turned around on a hike. While this would have been stressful in the past, having an arsenal of supplies strapped to my back left little room to panic. Furthermore, having a fully stocked cabin to return to after each hike was a constant comfort.

Who needs running water or an indoor toilet when you have this view?

Orwell agreed to carry his own first-aid kit as long as I carried treats in my pocket.

After a climb the top, we stop to enjoy the view.

If you are interested in seeing more pictures of my trip, visit this link.

Know before You Go

2013-02-15T15:33:00.000-08:00

When I moved to Portland from Indianapolis a year ago, my primary concern about the 2,260- mile drive was whether or not I picked the right audio book. Fortunately, I made it to Portland unscathed. Today, I am going to follow the advice of the Red Cross.

Prepare for the Unexpected (a shortened Red Cross list):

Carry a Disaster Supplies Kit in your trunk.
Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive.
Find out what disasters may occur in the place where you are traveling.
Pay attention to the weather forecast for your destination.
Don’t let your vehicle’s gas tank get too low.
If you are taking your pet with you, there are special things you should know
Map(s) of the area

To understand my risks, I called the forest ranger nearest the cabin who said the road conditions were “excellent.” To stay informed of other risks, I have the Red Cross apps on my phone, which will alert me of any natural disaster in my area. The University of Oregon’s list of hazards also has some good information on major risks.

If you have travel plans this weekend, stay safe and consider taking advantage of free Red Cross resources. If you're looking for something to do, consider making (or updating) your disaster plan. And if you don't want to leave the couch, the Red Cross apps are actually a lot of fun to play with.

A Cabin in the Woods

2013-02-14T16:35:00.003-08:00

While this cabin does have electricity
and charm, it doesn't have running water.

As my first official post, I am going to invite you to join me as I travel to the Sunshine Guard Station, a rustic cabin originally built as part of the Blue Mountain Work Center in 1935. The cabin is located approximately 43 miles from the town of John Day, Oregon, at 3,700 feet in elevation. A beautiful setting, but a terrible location for a person without a preparedness kit.

As a Red Cross employee, I’m embarrassed to admit that I am not as prepared as I should be. What’s worse is that I have access to Red Cross information, and therefore have no good excuse. So first thing's first, put together a preparedness kit:

At a minimum, you should have the basic supplies listed below:

Walking into a store and getting
very basic items took 20 minutes.
Not exactly sure why it's taken me
months to take this very simple step.

Water—one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
Food—non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
Flashlight
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
Multi-purpose tool
Sanitation and personal hygiene items
Copies of personal documents
Cell phone with chargers
Family and emergency contact information
Extra cash
Emergency blanket
Map(s) of the area

According to the experts here, I still have a long way to go. Tomorrow's goal will be to better understand my disaster risks, and prepare my car and dog for the long journey. Stay tuned!