By: Kara Witsoe, American Red Cross Volunteer

Disaster Action Team (DAT) members are often the first point of contact for people experiencing storms, floods, fires, and other natural disasters. They assess emergency situations, offer emotional support, help with immediate needs for shelter or supplies, provide financial assistance resources, and connect those experiencing disaster with long-term recovery services. 

Lori and Ed Birge, who serve in the Yakima area of the Red Cross Northwest Region, have been DAT volunteers for seven years. They are on call for at least three days a month and help clients any time of the day or night when a disaster strikes.

Their tasks vary greatly. They've helped in shelters, fed firefighters during devastating wildfires in eastern Washington, given comfort kits to those who lost most of their possessions, worked with medical providers to replace lost medications, and educated community members about fire safety and prevention. For them, the rewards of volunteering are plentiful.

"My favorite part of being a DAT member is to help people who are deeply in need of assistance. I'm there to listen and help," said Lori Birge. "For most, this is the worst day of their lives. Some have lost everything they own. Others have lost their beloved pets, and a few have lost family members."

Volunteers are urgently needed in the Yakima area to ensure families don't have to face these difficult times alone.

"We can't undo the damage, but we can give them a helping hand to get through the first few days after a disaster," said Lori. "I think that it gives people hope to know there's an organization like the Red Cross available in their hour of need. It is very satisfying to help your neighbors."

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED For those interested in helping fill this need, no experience is required. Red Cross training is provided to all volunteers to ensure success in the role.

You can positively impact the lives of people recovering from disasters in just a few hours a week. Apply today to join a Red Cross DAT team or contact Lynne Calmus at lynne.calmus@redcross.org to learn more about this unique need in Yakima.