Future American Red Cross volunteers gathered at the Story County Conservation Center in Ames on Friday, February 10 and Saturday, February 11 for the Zero2Hero training workshop.

Attendees learned what it takes to become a disaster volunteer with the Red Cross. Eleven people participated in Zero2Hero which doubled the expected turnout of five or six. Participants listened to presentations from Red Cross staff and had the opportunity to put the new skills they learned to the test with interactive case work exercises.

Megan Ritter, a senior at Baxter High School in Jasper County, attended the Zero2Hero event with her father. Ritter found the training to be beneficial for her career plans.

Ritter is attending Wartburg College in the fall to study biology. Afterward, she plans on going to medical school and specializing in emergency medicine.

“(Zero2Hero) was a good experience,” Ritter said. “It ties together with my career goals.” 

Ben Bolluyt was not sure what to expect going into the Red Cross Zero2Hero event, but found himself pleasantly surprised with how easy it was to get involved.

“It is cool to be in a position where I can help people out,” said Bolluyt. “I’m looking forward to doing that.”

For more information on how you can become a Red Cross hero, go to redcross.org/volunteer or call (515) 243-7681.