Dennis James has joined the American Red Cross as a disaster program specialist, serving on the Eastern SC team that organizes disaster operations in Myrtle Beach, Florence and surrounding counties.

As disaster program specialist, James implements disaster preparedness, response and recovery programs. He works closely with disaster leadership volunteers in each of the disaster cycle support areas to recruit and engage volunteers who want to help their community. He will be working closely with government and community partners on local preparation, response and recovery initiatives.

James has extensive experience in commercial, retail, financial and nonprofit organizations. He has served as a financial consultant and manager of retail and commercial businesses in the Myrtle Beach area. He has served as a certified emergency medical technician and was a volunteer fireman in Georgia. James has served as a Red Cross volunteer for nearly 40 years.

"In recent years as disasters seem to be increasing it has been my dream to do more for people in their time of need,” James said. “There is no greater need than for the American Red Cross to increase its presence in the Florence County and Pee Dee areas of South Carolina. I look forward to working with the volunteer base as they continue serve those in time of need in the community.”

At the Red Cross, there is no such thing as a small disaster. In every case, it is the Red Cross’ mission to help people affected by disaster meet their emergency needs, including shelter, food, clothing and health and mental health services. Disaster volunteers serve in a number of capacities, including disaster action team member, disaster assessment, caseworker, mass care feeding, emergency response vehicle driver, shelter manager/staff, disaster health services and disaster mental health.

To become a Red Cross volunteer, or to make a financial contribution to Red Cross, visit www.redcross.org/SC.