The American Red Cross of Idaho, Montana and East Oregon has named Jennifer Bivert as its new regional disaster program officer. Bivert, who lives in Payette, Idaho, will oversee disaster preparedness, response and recovery efforts across the region.

Bivert’s Red Cross journey began as a teenager when she volunteered on disaster responses throughout Northern California. She later became a Disaster Action Team volunteer, helping neighbors affected by home fires and other emergencies before joining the Red Cross staff as a disaster program manager.

"I'm incredibly honored," she said. "For 145 years, the American Red Cross has been there for people on some of the hardest days of their lives. Everything about that mission inspires me, from the volunteers who show up to the communities that welcome us and the promise that when someone needs help, we will be there."

In addition to her regional responsibilities, Bivert deploys several times each year to national disaster relief operations, specializing in logistics fulfillment.

Bivert also brings more than 20 years of experience in health information management, having worked with health care organizations including Northwestern Medicine, Mayo Clinic and Sutter Health.

In 2007, she partnered with the San Francisco Giants Community Fund to launch a Junior Giants baseball league in her hometown, providing no-cost baseball opportunities for local children.

"Leading disaster services across Idaho, Montana and East Oregon is an honor I don't take lightly," Bivert said. "I'm grateful for every volunteer, colleague, mentor, partner and community member who has shaped my journey and trusted me along the way."

As regional disaster officer, Bivert will lead a disaster workforce of paid staff and volunteers dedicated to helping communities prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies throughout the region.

"I love this mission, and I believe deeply in the people who carry it forward every day," she said. "I am incredibly proud and humbled to have the opportunity to lead them as we continue helping our neighbors. We'll continue showing up when people need us most."