When Bernadine Dorantes first saw a story on the news about the Red Cross Shelter Heroes program, something clicked. Inspired, she signed up for the training—wanting to be part of a team that steps in when families lose everything. 

Just weeks later, Bernadine was putting that training to use during her very first volunteer experience, helping support residents displaced by the Cedar Park Apartments fire in Lake City. 

With a master’s degree in counseling and state certification, she brought not only enthusiasm but also professional skill to the shelter. From listening to clients to offering comfort in moments of crisis, she’s already making a meaningful impact. “Any volunteer on the front lines needs empathy to connect with clients,” she shared, "but my background helps me be there for people when they need it most.” 

She’s also quick to point out that it’s not just the clients who inspire her—it’s the team of Red Cross volunteers she serves alongside. “This team is amazing,” Bernadine said. “They made me feel part of it right away, and it’s awesome to work with people who bring so much experience and heart to the mission.” 

Though new to volunteering with the Red Cross, Bernadine has witnessed its mission in action before. As an administrator in Broward County during the Parkland school shooting, she saw firsthand how the Red Cross supports communities in crisis—even as she searched for her own son, a senior at the school at the time. The experience left a lasting impression and strengthened her resolve to serve others. 

Giving back runs deep in her family. Her sister once received life-changing support from United Way after her husband returned from military service with severe health challenges, and their youngest child was born with medical complications. That compassion, Bernadine says, is what motivates her to step up today. 

From being inspired by a news clip to standing inside a Red Cross shelter, Bernadine Dorantes has come full circle. And now, she’s ready to keep going—deploying wherever she’s needed most to bring hope, healing, and comfort to families in crisis. 

Want to learn more about becoming a Shelter Hero? The Red Cross Shelter Heroes program trains volunteers to help open, operate, and support shelters during disasters — providing safety, comfort, and compassion to families when they need it most. No experience is required; we’ll provide all the training and support you need to make a real impact in your community. Visit redcross.org/volunteer.