By SFL Public Affairs Team

For Susan Gatzert-Snyder, deploying with the American Red Cross is about more than responding to disasters, it’s about meeting people where they are, honoring their experiences and providing care rooted in dignity and respect.

A psychiatric mental health nurse by training, Susan brings decades of professional experience into her volunteer role with the Red Cross. “I’ve had a diverse background,” she shared, reflecting on her career in emergency rooms, teaching psychiatric nursing, and supporting individuals and families through crisis. “The Red Cross is a really great fit for me as we reach out to communities and, as part of the disaster mental health team, provide support to individuals who have incurred a recent loss.”

Over the years, Susan has deployed to disaster responses across Florida and the country including California, Puerto Rico, Maui, and most recently, Alaska. Each deployment left a lasting impression, but her experience in Alaska stood out. “That deployment is something I will always remember,” she said. “It was very unique working with people from a different culture than I am, and the Red Cross provided excellent training on how to do that respectfully.”

In Alaska, flooding disrupted entire ways of life. “It not only destroyed their homes, but it also destroyed their food sources,” Susan shared. Shelters worked to provide food that was culturally appropriate, even inviting community members to teach volunteers how traditional foods were prepared. “We wanted to provide what people were accustomed to,” Susan said. “That’s part of being culturally sensitive.”

During her Alaska deployment, Susan served in a newer role focused on staff mental health. It included supporting Red Cross employees and volunteers working long, demanding days in shelters, warehouses and command centers. “The Red Cross really cares for their employees and volunteers,” Susan said. “These people are away from home, giving their time, and things can happen.”

For Susan, deploying is a powerful way to truly understand the impact of disasters. “When you hear these stories first-hand, it does have an emotional impact,” she said. “By hearing their stories, they’re able to share their experience, which decreases their stress and provides them with support.”

Whether responding to disasters across the country or supporting families impacted by fires and emergencies here in South Florida, Susan’s commitment remains the same.

“I believe in the work that we do,” she said. “It’s about respecting individuals in need and carrying forward the Red Cross mission.”

Be like Susan and sign up to volunteer with the American Red Cross this new year. Visit redcross.org/volunteer to learn more.