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Red Cross Disaster Services Director Eric Lynes discusses Disaster Action Teams (DAT), and Disaster Services Human Resources Teams at a presentation at USM’s Lewiston-Auburn College |
November 2008
Representatives from the United Valley Chapter of the Red Cross spoke at the University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston Auburn College, on Tuesday, November 11th. Laurie Levine, director of the United Valley Chapter, discussed the varied work in which the Red Cross participates, locally, nationally, and internationally as well as volunteer opportunities for participation in all of these arenas.
In addition, Eric Lynes, Disaster Services Director, shared information about serving on Disaster Action Teams (DAT), and Disaster Services Human Resources Teams. Disaster Action Teams are trained for emergencies such as floods, and fires that occur in the local community. When a disaster threatens or strikes, the Red Cross provides shelter, food, and health and mental health services to address basic human needs. The Disaster Services Human Resources system (DSHR) trains volunteers who provide relief either locally, nationally, or globally. This type of team is mobilized whenever the disaster exceeds the local unit’s capacity. After hurricane Katrina, teams were sent out to assist individuals throughout affected states. Training for participation in these volunteer positions is free of charge.
Another area in which Red Cross provides assistance is to military families through its Armed Forces Emergency Services. Emergency communications, financial assistance, and counseling are provided for both community-based and active duty military personnel and their families.
Local Red Cross chapters are linked to the International Red Cross through national headquarters. Internationally the Red Cross provides help for people facing natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies throughout the world. In all endeavors the Red Cross is guided by seven fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. To ensure the integrity of these principles the Red Cross remains a non-profit organization, rather than a government agency. As such, it depends on donations and fund-raising for financial support.
Volunteers are needed in all aspects of Red Cross operations; in addition to DAT and DSHR teams, computer, office and organizational skills are keenly sought. Interested individuals are urged to call United Valley Red Cross, located at 1180 Lisbon Street in Lewiston. Phone: (207) 795-4004.
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