By Ram Sharma

When disaster strikes, many people watch the news from afar. But there are those who step forward to help. Rachel Reisman of York County is one of them – focused on the people affected, displaced, and distressed in the areas where disasters hit. She is a volunteer caseworker with the American Red Cross and has helped in the aftermath of more than 200 disasters, primarily home fires, floods and storms. For her, this work is not just a service, but a purpose.

“I wanted to be the person who shows up when it matters,” Reisman said. “The Red Cross brings hope and practical help to people during their most difficult moments. That resonates with me deeply.”

As a recovery caseworker, Reisman helps people affected by disasters create recovery plans and connect with resources to help them get back on their feet. Every disaster is different, and so are the needs of each affected family and community.

"Recovery is not about material things," Reisman said. "It's about stability, guiding people through uncertainty and reminding them they're not alone."

For Reisman, volunteer work is an opportunity to grow personally, learn new skills and be surrounded by others who share similar interests and a commitment to compassion and service. Still, her role carries emotional weight. Hearing daily stories of loss, fear and survival can take a toll on a recovery caseworker.

“One of my biggest challenges is emotional burnout,” Reisman said. “From listening to the traumatic stories day after day and continuing to hear the struggles of individuals or families to rebuild can take an emotional toll.”

Even so, the resilience of the people she serves fuels her to keep going.

“Watching someone rebuild their life from nothing, it changes you,” she said. “It inspires greater empathy and makes you more grounded.”

In her more than two years volunteering with the American Red Cross, Reisman has polished her professional skills, including crisis management, problem-solving, critical thinking and networking. She is working toward adding another volunteer role to her résumé: reunification volunteer – helping families locate or connect with loved ones after a disaster.

“Hope is powerful,” Reisman said.

For Reisman, volunteering is a thread woven throughout the fabric of her life, a reflection of her commitment to living a balanced and grounded lifestyle. Outside of the Red Cross, she manages several Facebook groups, including “Buy Nothing”, yard sale and other community-based groups in Maryland and Pennsylvania. She also taps into her creativity by making customized jewelry.

Volunteers make up more than 90% of the Red Cross workforce and are the lifeblood of our mission. The Red Cross offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities to match different interests, talents and skill levels. Time commitments range from as little as four hours per month to more than 40 hours a week. To explore available volunteer roles in your community and sign up to join us, visit redcross.org/volunteer.