A Quick Glimpse into Outreach: Volunteers Powering Hope in Alaska

Group of Red Cross volunteers in the snow next to an airplane.

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Red Cross volunteers walking through the snow towards a hospital.

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view from an airplane looking down at the snow covered landscape.

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Two Red Cross volunteers wearing jackets and sitting at a table in a room.

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Inside the cockpit of an airplane while it's flying.

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Red Cross volunteer in snow gear takes a selfie.

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Person sitting in a room next to a pile of new extension cords.

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Outside of a building that has a sign that says Negtemiut Elitnaurviat.

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November 07, 2025

By Sharonne Hayes

In the vast and remote landscapes of Alaska, Red Cross volunteers continue going the distance—literally and figuratively—to ensure communities affected by Typhoon Halong receive the support they need.

From Anchorage to Bethel to Chefornak, our deployed teams have been working side-by-side with state emergency managers, local community partners, FEMA, and more to reach residents in evacuated and/or affected villages and support relief registration efforts. Volunteers have set up operations in hospitals, traveled by small aircraft, and relied on satellite phones and Starlink connections to stay in touch across challenging terrain.

Whether coordinating logistics from headquarters or conducting focused outreach in the field, our volunteers have shown incredible adaptability and heart—qualities mirrored in the strength and resilience of the impacted communities now on the challenging path of recovery. Together, they’re helping ensure residents begin to receive access to vital resources, support, and care.

Disaster Action Team volunteers are the backbone of our emergency response efforts. In fact, more than 90% of the American Red Cross workforce is made up of volunteers—people who generously give their time, skills, and compassion to help others in moments of crisis. DAT members respond to disasters of all sizes, from home fires to hurricanes, offering comfort, care, and critical services when they’re needed most. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back and be part of a compassionate community, consider joining the DAT. Learn more and sign up at redcross.org/volunteer.

Meanwhile, thank you to our Disaster Action Team volunteers and all those who continue to be the compassion behind the mission of relief. You’re not just delivering services—you’re delivering hope.

To learn more about Red Cross efforts to support those impacted by Typhoon Halong and other disasters — or to explore volunteer opportunities — visit redcross.org/nc or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for updates and stories from the field.