WEST PALM BEACH — As the New Year brings the tradition of resolutions, consider helping people in need as a volunteer in South Florida.

During the coronavirus pandemic, families continue to depend on Red Cross South Florida volunteers every day for emergency support, including disaster response, support for our military and veterans, and virtual opportunities to serve our communities. The work of the Red Cross has never been more important as the demand for services has never been higher.

“Just knowing that someone is there to lend a helping hand during these trying times provides a light of hope for our neighbors,” said Tiffany Page, Regional Volunteer Services Officer for the South Florida Region. “Please join us by resolving to help as a Red Cross volunteer and ensure no one faces life’s emergencies alone.”

Why volunteer?

Inspirational volunteers, like South Florida Red Cross volunteer Mitch Kassel, are living examples of the power of giving back and being a volunteer. Mitch is a veteran of the U.S. Navy Submarine Service and is dedicated to the Red Cross mission, not only in South Florida but previously in the Greater New York Region as well, where he spent years volunteering before moving south.

“There are people in dire situations that need help, and I feel someone has to help, so why not me,” says Kassel. “I have the time, the best Red Cross training, and I have a desire to be there when things are bad.” When asked why he gives back to the Red Cross, Kassel stated, “Why do I do this? It’s the feeling I get inside from being there for people in need that makes it all worthwhile. I did something good with my time.”

How to help

The need for volunteers is constant, and everyone’s well-being is our top priority as we work with public health officials to safely deliver services during COVID-19. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to learn more, including most-needed positions.

Disaster Response volunteers: Most of the U.S. disasters that the Red Cross responds to every eight minutes are local home fires, which can destroy nearly everything a family owns in a matter of minutes. Partnering with local fire departments, Red Cross Disaster Action Team volunteers connect with families by video or phone call to provide emotional support, emergency financial assistance and information to help families begin to recover.

Volunteer from home (virtual positions): Help from the comfort of your own home through a wide range of virtual opportunities, including:

Disaster Preparedness volunteers: Through virtually hosted presentations, teach people how to reduce the risk of disaster, prepare to respond effectively, and cope with disasters when they happen.

Disaster Health & Mental Health volunteers: Compassionate, (licensed) professionals that can virtually help meet the medical and emotional needs of those impacted by small- and large-scale disasters.

Service to the Armed Forces volunteers: Help members of the military, veterans and their families prepare for, cope with, and respond to the challenges of military service.