Red Cross Trains Volunteers March 25

The Red Cross is seeking volunteers to be part of its Disaster Action Team (DAT) in Door County.

DATs are called to the scenes of local emergencies such as house fires, according to local DAT member Jody Weitman. From there, they provide victims with emotional support and connect them to Red Cross services and other local resources. During the days following an incident, DAT members also check on victims to see what kind of help they may still need.

“We’re one of the first people there, and we’re that friendly face when someone is having a really hard time,” Weitman said, and explained that the need for DAT members has increased during recent years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Recently, the Red Cross has been responding very late to calls from [local] fire chiefs,” Weitman said. “It turns out that was because they have very few volunteers left after COVID.”

During a training session set for March 25, 8 am – 4 pm, prospective volunteers will learn what being a DAT member entails and how to work with clients. That session will be held at the Door County Justice Center, 1205 S. Duluth Ave. in Sturgeon Bay.

Registration is required, so call Audrey Reese, Red Cross Disaster Program manager, at 920.246.9540 to reserve a spot.