By: Arnav Kakarala

The partnership between VolunteerNow and the American Red Cross is a testament to their commitment to cooperation when they mobilize to help provide hope and support to communities during their times of need. The two organizations work together to create a force for positive change in neighborhoods after a disaster.

This collaboration is significant considering VolunteerNow's role within the Mass Care Task Force. VolunteerNow uses the volunteer engagement platform VOLY.org to provide timely and pertinent communications on how, when and where volunteers are needed. Furthermore, VOLY.org serves as a virtual volunteer reception center, facilitating sign-ups for response efforts and supporting municipalities and nonprofits.

"VolunteerNow mobilizes and communicates with spontaneous volunteers needed to assist in mass care relief efforts," said Meghan Delaney from VolunteerNow's operations team. 

"During blue skies and gray skies, VolunteerNow refers volunteers to opportunities with the American Red Cross," Delaney continued. "We share any current needs, including Home Fire Campaign, Disaster Action Team and blood donation information with our volunteer audience." 

This constant channel of information ensures that volunteers are informed and engaged, even in urgent situations. It is all part of VolunteerNow's mission to transform lives through volunteers under the guidance of CEO Currie Triska. 

"Our collaboration with the American Red Cross has yielded remarkable achievements," Triska said. 

In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in 2017, VolunteerNow was pivotal in supporting the mega shelter at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas. "Approximately 17,000 volunteers registered on VOLY.org, with 2,000 background checks conducted to ensure safety. The dedicated efforts of some 3,000 volunteers made a significant impact," Delaney shared. This collaboration extended beyond immediate shelter needs, delivering messages of support and rallying volunteers for relief efforts.

In February 2021, Winter Storm Uri brought another testament to this partnership's strength. "VolunteerNow quickly rallied volunteers to assist the Red Cross in distributing water and ensuring necessities for senior living apartment complexes," Delaney said. This swift response showcased VolunteerNow's volunteer engagement platform's prowess and dedication to aiding communities in need.

 Beyond disasters, VolunteerNow connects volunteers with opportunities to support teachers and students in classrooms and provides affordable, high-quality goods through Discount Depot stores.

As an integral part of the Mass Care Task Force and a driving force for volunteer solutions, VolunteerNow continues to forge a meaningful difference in North Texas. And their partnership with the American Red Cross is a shining example of what they can accomplish through cooperation. Together, they exemplify volunteerism's potential to transform lives and positively impact society. 

"Volunteers change everything - where they live, work, and play - and transform their own lives in serving others," Delaney said.