By Kateleen Quiles, American Red Cross Public Affairs

In June 2024, Norberto Escribano joined the Red Cross as a Disaster Action Team (DAT) member and shelter volunteer. Since then, he has responded to a range of emergencies, from multi-home fires to hurricanes. He’s also become a familiar face around the Greater Miami Chapter office, lending a hand with logistics, warehouse support and transportation needs.

“The primary reason I'm doing this is because I want to be able to help uplift others in the midst of chaos, to be able to help them back up,” said Norberto.

A few months into his volunteer journey, Norberto encouraged his daughter, Nancy, to give it a try. In October 2024, she surprised him by applying online to become a DAT volunteer herself.

Nancy remembers her very first fire response vividly – a multi-family fire at a Hialeah mobile home park.

“There was a different feeling in the atmosphere. Helping the family, asking questions and being there for them. It was very fulfilling,” said Nancy.

Since then, Nancy has taken on the role of Engagement Liaison on the Disaster Workforce Engagement (DWE) team. Some of her responsibilities in this position include behind-the-scenes work such as helping during sheltering call-downs, making volunteer outreach calls and assisting with events.

“As much as I like being front and center, I leave that [spotlight] for my dad,” Nancy said.

Even before they began volunteering, the two shared a close bond. “We’ve always had a great relationship,” said Nancy. “I love my dad, and he loves me. I’m the youngest of his five kids.”

Now, volunteering together has added a new layer to their relationship. Nancy explained that there’s a special excitement when people at the office recognize them as a father-daughter volunteer duo.

For Norberto, it’s all about sharing meaningful moments with his daughter. “I want to be able to share volunteering with my daughter and do things where I help others [alongside] her,” said Norberto.

Both Norberto and Nancy encourage others to take the leap and volunteer.

“I had my doubts,” Nancy said. “But as soon as you step your feet in… you want to keep going. It's worth it. Just take the chance and volunteer. It’s not only changing your life, but everyone else's as well.”

“It's motivating to be able to do something that makes a difference and [has an] impact on other people's lives,” said Norberto. “Especially when you’re sharing it with your own child.”

This Father’s Day, consider making a difference together. Join the Disaster Action Team and start your Red Cross journey today at redcross.org/SFLvolunteer.