Volunteer with American Red Cross (ARC)

 

Student Opportunities with the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross offers various opportunities for students to engage in meaningful work while gaining valuable experience. From internships to volunteer roles, students can make a significant impact in emergency management, business risk management, or humanitarian services. These opportunities not only help communities in need but also provide students with hands-on experience, skill development, and professional networking.

Internships with the American Red Cross

An internship with the American Red Cross is a gateway to a rewarding career in various fields. Here's how an internship can benefit students:

Hands-On Experience

Interns play a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of the American Red Cross. They contribute to projects that are essential to the organization's mission, providing them with an insider's perspective on humanitarian work, emergency response, and risk mitigation. This practical experience is invaluable for students preparing for careers in these fields.

Networking

Interning with the American Red Cross allows students to connect with professionals in the field, building a network that can lead to future job opportunities and references. These connections are crucial for career development and can open doors to various roles within and outside the organization.

Specific Skills Development

Internships with the American Red Cross provide specialized training in several areas:

• Emergency Management: Interns learn about disaster response protocols, crisis communication, and incident management, preparing them for roles in emergency services.

• Business Risk Management: Exposure to risk assessment, continuity planning, and organizational resilience equips interns with the skills needed for careers in risk management.

• Humanitarian Services: Interns gain an understanding of community engagement, cultural sensitivity, and working with vulnerable populations, which are critical skills for humanitarian work.

Enhanced Resume

Having an internship with the American Red Cross on a resume adds credibility and demonstrates a commitment to humanitarian causes. It shows potential employers that the student has practical experience and is dedicated to making a positive impact.

Volunteer Opportunities with the American Red Cross

Volunteering with the American Red Cross offers students a chance to make a difference while gaining experience. Here are some ways students can get involved:

Disaster Action Team (DAT)

DAT members are often the first on the scene during a disaster. They provide emotional support, financial assistance, and information to families affected by events like home fires. Being part of the DAT allows students to deploy to national disasters, offering them a unique and impactful experience.

Health and Mental Health Support

Trained volunteers provide health, mental health, and spiritual support during disasters. They manage medical conditions, care for injuries, and replace critical medical equipment. This role is ideal for students in health-related fields who want to apply their skills in real-world situations.

Shelter and Supplies

Volunteers assist with providing shelter, food, clothing, and essential supplies to displaced individuals and families. This role involves logistics and mass care, essential aspects of disaster response. The American Red Cross is the principal provider of shelters for people who have to evacuate because of disasters. 

Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV)

The Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) is a critical piece of equipment in successful disaster response. These vehicles enable the American Red Cross to quickly provide food, supplies, and relief to people affected by disasters. The next-generation ERV is fuel-efficient, easier to drive, and has ample storage for essentials like food and water. It includes improved safety features and ergonomic systems for efficient distribution of relief items. To drive an ERV, volunteers typically need to complete Red Cross training, which may include a combination of in-person and online coursework.

Client Casework

Volunteers work directly with disaster-affected individuals, assessing their needs, connecting them with resources, and helping them plan for recovery. This role requires empathy, communication skills, and the ability to coordinate support services.

Government Operations

Some volunteers engage in government liaison roles, working with local, state, and federal agencies to coordinate disaster response efforts. This experience is valuable for students interested in public administration or policy-making.

Training Opportunities

The American Red Cross provides comprehensive training for its volunteers to ensure they are well-prepared to assist in disaster relief and humanitarian efforts. Key training programs include:

• Disaster Cycle Services Overview: Covers the entire disaster response process, from preparation to recovery, and explains the role of volunteers in Disaster Cycle Services.

• Join Your Local Disaster Action Team (DAT): Prepares volunteers to respond to local disasters, providing immediate assistance and support.

• Teach Children About Preparedness: Programs like "The Pillowcase Project" educate youth on disaster preparedness, helping them stay safe during emergencies.

• Smoke Alarm Installation Campaign: Volunteers install smoke alarms in homes, preventing injuries and saving lives.

Conclusion

Interning or volunteering with the American Red Cross offers students a unique opportunity to develop practical skills, build professional networks, and gain hands-on experience in their field of interest. Whether through internships or volunteer roles, students can make a significant impact on their communities while preparing for successful careers in emergency management, business risk management, or humanitarian services.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the American Red Cross website or contact your local chapter.