Ready Relay

About 

Ready Relay is a fun and interactive way to learn about emergency preparedness and responses in the case of natural disasters. Participants compete in teams of four to six against other teams to complete a series of Red Cross mission-related tasks. 

Purpose 

This activity aims to help participants become “Red Cross Ready” for emergencies. Being prepared may not prevent a disaster, but it will give you the confidence to meet the challenge. Ready Relay can also be a fundraising activity to raise money for mission-related services, such as providing shelters for victims of disaster and restoring family links internationally.  

How to Get Started

Step 1: Set Clear Goals and Objectives 

Define your desired outcomes for the activity and create measurable goals and objectives to guide the planning process. We encourage you to integrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations into your activity and be creative with your approaches.  

Step 2: Plan the Details 

Determine an admission fee if the activity is intended to be a fundraiser. $5 to $10 is a good range.

Choose what mission-related tasks participants should complete for the activity. A task sheet with example tasks is provided (see the Ready Relay Task Sheet section). Plan how to distribute the tasks, such as printing them and handing them to each team captain.

   • Learn How to Prepare for Emergencies.

Create an RSVP form to share with prospective participants

   • Ask them to sign up in teams of 4 to 6 with one participant as the team captain and encourage them to get creative with their team names!  

Step 3: Coordinate the Logistics

Set a date and time

   • This activity will take about two hours, depending on the mission-related tasks participants are required to complete.

Secure a venue

   • Find a location in your school or a public place with more foot traffic, such as a mall or a park. Decide a “home base” location for participants to report back to.

Assign roles and responsibilities

   • This activity requires volunteers to distribute the mission-related tasks and collect proof of completion. You might need more volunteers depending on the number of teams.

Gather supplies

   • Create a list of supplies needed and arrange to acquire them in advance.

   • Determine and secure a prize for the winning team.

Spread the Word

   • (See Sample Ready Relay Flyer section) Advertise the activity through various channels such as social media, email, and school announcements.

   • Send a reminder with important details prior to the activity.

Step 4: Facilitate the Activity

   • Run through Step 2 and Step 3 in advance and engage the participants throughout the activity.

   • Arrive early to set up for the activity.

   • Have all participants begin from one designated spot, where you will distribute the first task. Continue distributing tasks until teams complete all tasks and a winner is determined.

Step 5: Debrief and Thank Your Volunteers

   • Invite participants to discuss their experiences and capture lessons learned.

   • Thank everyone who contributed and participated.

   • Remind volunteers to record their hours through Volunteer Connection.