By Briana Phillips, American Red Cross volunteer
The Mid-South Chapter of the American Red Cross highlights Vanessa Mejia, a Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteer who serves in Memphis, Tennessee.
When she moved to Tennessee in 2017, she was looking for ways to get involved in her community. She chose the DAT position because it allowed flexibility with her work schedule and has continued with the department since then. She has even managed to take on multiple roles and responsibilities as a duty officer and supervisor for the team.
During her time volunteering, Meija has helped those affected by the destruction of tornadoes, floods, and house fires in her region. Working to dispatch volunteers to sites and assist people at the scene of the disaster has been rewarding for her. Typically, she is called out to help with house fires, the most common disaster the Red Cross volunteers respond to.
“The main job of the Disaster Action Team is to help with the immediate needs of people affected by the disaster,” she explained. “It’s all about getting people back on their feet as quickly as possible.”
Assistance can vary depending on the situation, but the Red Cross aids with getting people situated with temporary housing, food, and medical necessities following a disaster. However, the most important service the Red Cross provides is emotional support in the face of crisis.
“Some people are overwhelmed by the loss they just went through, so it’s important that we are there to help them through a tough situation,” Meija said. “You have to be strong for our clients, but the people we help are very appreciative of the support we provide.”
While she enjoys the current team she volunteers with, she hopes that more volunteers can join the ranks soon, as there is always a need for volunteers with the Red Cross.
“Some of us must travel a long distance to reach disaster sites,” she added, “However, if we had more volunteers in separate locations, then that would ensure that the Red Cross could handle responding more effectively and quickly.”
Meija will continue volunteering as long as she can, but she would love to see more people who are willing to help in a crisis join the American Red Cross. “It’s not easy, but it’s rewarding work,” she said. “I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy the role, but I actually am really glad to be a part of the Red Cross.”
If you are interested in volunteering with the Disaster Action Team or to volunteer with other lines of service, visit the Red Cross website at RedCross.org/Volunteer for more information.