The first step to becoming a Red Cross Disaster Response volunteer is to apply using our volunteer management system, Volunteer Connection.

To begin, create a profile. It takes less than five minutes. Submit your volunteer application through the system and request a background check. Then, attend a volunteer orientation. Upon receipt of your background check and application, and attendance at an orientation, you will be contacted by someone from within the department you choose to volunteer to discuss the next steps.

Time commitments vary according to the area in which you choose to volunteer. Coordinators will discuss specifics with you after you complete the application process in Volunteer Connection, our volunteer management system.

Yes, although you must have experience with disaster response as a local Red Cross volunteer. To acquire that experience, you must register, train and serve with your local chapter. There is no better time than now to start, so complete an application today!

Typically, there are very few volunteers deployed internationally, and they are specially trained to manage international emergency operations. Please consider supporting our community’s local needs by volunteering with the American Red Cross Ohio Buckeye Region.

Once you have completed the application process you will sign up for Volunteer Orientation. At that time we will go through all of the volunteer opportunities currently available. If you have additional questions, please call 614-253-5476.

In addition to completing the application process and background check, you will attend a Volunteer Orientation at which time we will review all of the volunteer opportunities available. Consider how much time you are interested in dedicating, your skills and talents, where you are willing to volunteer and your schedule.