A. The American Red Cross relies on volunteers to do great things every day. Whether helping neighbors across Northwest Iowa prepare for emergencies, providing training in lifesaving skills, assisting victims of disasters, connecting families, or simply lending a helping hand to members of the community. Without our volunteers, there would be no Red Cross.

Our volunteers receive as much as they give, and often much more. They come from a variety of cultures and from all walks of life. Many want to help after a major disaster, such as the World Trade Center attacks of 2001 or Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Others wish to donate their professional expertise to benefit members of their communities.

A. Satisfaction. Fulfillment. Enrichment. Gratification. A spirit of belonging and giving. The opportunity to do great things every day.

A. Time commitments vary according to the area in which you choose to volunteer. Many volunteers work regular weekly or monthly shifts. Others chose to be reserve volunteers and respond only to major local disasters. Although our need for volunteers is greatest during weekdays, many evening and weekend opportunities are also available.

A. To become a volunteer, start by submitting an application through Volunteer Connection. You can find links for adult volunteers and for youth ages 13-17 by scrolling up. 

A. Adult volunteers must be at least 18 years old. Volunteers who are younger than 18 years old are encouraged to join the American Red Cross Youth Group.

A. Yes, although you must have experience with disaster response as a local Red Cross volunteer. To acquire that experience, you must register and train with the local chapter.

A. Background checks have been an area of focus at the American Red Cross and encouraged for many years. However, after the fraud and waste that occurred during our work aiding those affected by the hurricanes of 2005, it was decided that mandatory background checks on all employees and volunteers were necessary. Red Cross continues to reaffirm our accountability to the American public. The background check initiative, coupled with our previous efforts on this front, will help us achieve a more efficient and safer work environment for our employees and volunteers.

A. There is no cost to volunteer for the Red Cross! All basic expenses accrued during a disaster are covered as well as training classes.