Ahead of Hurricane Ian’s arrival, the American Red Cross mobilized 83 truckloads of shelter supplies (cots, blankets and comfort kits), along with tens of thousands of relief supplies to areas across the Sunshine State. Rows and rows of semi-trailers line an Orlando parking lot two days post landfall, where dozens of logistics volunteers will inventory, unload, organize and distribute these supplies to shelters, communities and neighbors that desperately need them.

In this story, we’re introducing you to several hard-working logistics volunteers from across the country. They are just a few of our behind-the-scenes volunteer heroes.

DeeDee Larson, South Dakota

Larson is a warehouse supervisor who began volunteering in her home state in March of this year. In her role, she takes inventory and keeps track of pre-positioned supplies like water, snacks and blankets, as well as clean-up and comfort kits. While she and fellow volunteers have been working hard for days, she knows their work has just begun. “This is arguably the biggest day we’ve had so far, but it’s basically a start in terms of getting supplies out to where it’s needed.” For Larson, the days are long and strenuous, but hearing feedback from people she helps is one of the best things about deployment “They are very thankful that we’re here.”

Ellen White, Virginia

“I will do this until I can’t do it anymore. The clients need all of these supplies,” says Ellen White, gesturing to the asphalt parking lot filled with semi-trucks and trailers. White is a logistical supervisor; it’s her job to open the trucks and catalog the content. This helps ensure the right supplies get on the right vehicle and get to the right location. “Giving back to people that have been through a terrible disaster – I’m going to work hard. I’m going to work like I’m getting paid. I’m going to give 12 hours, 16 hours a day if I have to.”

Many caring individuals like DeeDee and Ellen are choosing the American Red Cross as the organization through which they want to volunteer their time. To join them, please get started at redcross.org/volunteer.

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