Deanna Lau-Ino joined the Red Cross LA Region to support families in crisis. Driven by a commitment to keep her community safer, she continues today as a vital member of the volunteer workforce. (Photo courtesy of Deanna Lau-Ino).
Kelly Kettering/American Red Cross
When the devastating Los Angeles wildfires erupted, Deanna Lau-Ino felt an immediate pull to help. Her son, a firefighter, had been deployed to Pacific Palisades for a two-week assignment, and she followed the coverage closely as unprecedented weather conditions fueled the flames that put firefighters at risk.
After attending the Red Cross Disaster Relief Orientation, Lau-Ino was impressed by the breadth of services the Red Cross provides in times of need. She volunteered to provide canteening support at the LA Red Cross disaster response headquarters, where she helped keep weary volunteers going—handing out meals, snacks and beverages to the hundreds of Red Cross workers who had traveled from across the country to support the wildfire response.
“It was heartwarming to see how large the [Red Cross] is,” Lau-Ino shared. “Individuals and couples who had met during Hurricane Katrina were now working together again here for this event.”
After the fires abated and disaster services weren’t as urgent, Lau-Ino volunteered in a few other capacities. In July, she became the Western Los Angeles Chapter coordinator for the Sound the Alarm home fire safety campaign—Red Cross program that provides free smoke alarms to vulnerable communities. Naturally organized and with a background in project management, she has already coordinated 60 home visits to install free smoke alarms.
When asked how her volunteer work impacts her life, Lau-Ino shared, “I enjoy meeting and helping people — the Red Cross is the perfect organization to accomplish both. You’re surrounded by like-minded people who care for others and give of their time generously”.
Don’t wait for disaster to strike to train as a volunteer – join our dedicated team today at redcross.org/volunteer.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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