Responding to Disasters

The impact of natural disasters can destroy communities. To repair damages, response efforts must know how to efficiently lend support, resources, time, and energy. Take a look at these resources and learn how to mobilize your campus and community to make responsible contributions to relief efforts. 

Be Patient 
Resist the urge to make quick decisions before truly understanding how to be helpful. As community needs are assessed, volunteer opportunities and partnering organizations will be identified to lead the recovery. Be patient as these assessments are made. Do not self-deploy, this may complicate first responders' efforts and create unnecessary dangers. 

Register Your Interest to Volunteer 
When volunteer needs are identified, organizations will mobilize volunteers in their database. Make sure you’re connected with these organizations to learn more about deployment opportunities.

• AmeriCorps - do a quick search to find a program involved in disaster relief 
• American Red Cross - contact your local Red Cross about volunteering 
• AmeriCorps Alums Disaster Response - fill out the availability form online 
• Salvation Army - find ways to get involved
• Serve.gov - locate volunteer opportunities
• HandsOn Network - fill out your volunteer skills profile to connect your skills with disaster relief needs

Disaster Recovery Course Models 
Rebuilding Vermont; Community Engagement in Disaster Preparedness and ReliefBy: University of Vermont 
Learn how the University of Vermont created a service-learning class (in less than a week) to support recovery from Hurricane Irene in 2011. 

Ready Campus
By: Pennsylvania Campus Compact 
Prepare your campus to respond to disasters by utilizing this resource. The manual covers topics such as emergency management, community partnerships, and service-learning. 

Donate In-kind Donations and Materials 
National Donations Management Network is a virtual portal that allows companies and individuals to offer support during disasters. Access the portal to contribute financially, send in-kind donations, and to give skills and time to organizations active in the disaster response. 

Resources 
National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster is a forum where organizations share knowledge and resources throughout the disaster cycle to help disaster survivors and their communities.

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