By Shiv Bansal, American Red Cross

American Red Cross volunteers and staff members provide a vital role in disaster relief.  It can be done on the ground or virtually from their own homes. Julie Stolting is an excellent example of a person who volunteers from home. She’s a seasoned Red Cross staff member who has made a difference both in person and virtually.

 “Some people can’t leave due to family obligations, pets, or other responsibilities,” Julie said. “Virtual deployment gives them an opportunity to still help, just in a different way.”

Julie’s Red Cross journey began in 2010 with the aftermath of the tornado in Joplin, Missouri. She worked in Health and Safety before transitioning to Disaster Services. Her first deployment was to Moore, Oklahoma, following a devastating tornado, where she worked in Logistics to help coordinate the supply of essential resources for affected communities.

Since then, Julie’s passion has led her to deploy more than 27 times, helping communities affected by hurricanes, tornadoes, and even last year’s Lahaina Wildfires. While many of her deployments were in-person, a significant number were done virtually. Her preferred virtual role is Lodging, helping to secure housing for Red Cross workers, deployed to disaster areas, in hotels or shelters. Through her computer and phone, she ensures those on the front lines have a safe place to stay.

Virtual deployment comes with its advantages and challenges. “One of the biggest benefits is that you can work from home,” Julie explained. With virtual deployments, one can maintain a work-life balance and can still pursue their passion for helping others without neglecting other responsibilities, like family.

For Julie, the motivation to deploy—whether in person or virtually—comes from a love of learning and helping communities across the country. “Every disaster relief operation is different, challenging, and inspirational,” she said. “You meet people from all over, and I’ve deployed with the same colleagues from across the United States multiple times.”

Julie encourages others to consider deployment, whether in-person or virtually, with the Red Cross as it helps individuals to learn, grow, and serve in a meaningful way. “If you like meeting new people and learning new things, deployment is a great way to make an impact.”

Julie’s story is a reminder that Red Cross volunteers and staff don’t have to be on the ground to make a difference. They can make a great difference virtually, serving in critical roles from wherever they are to ensure that disaster response efforts continue seamlessly.

If you’re looking for a way to support disaster relief but aren’t able to travel, consider joining the Red Cross as a virtual volunteer. Your skills and dedication can help communities in their time of greatest need. Learn more at https://www.redcross.org/volunteer.