The Indiana Region of the American Red Cross would not be able to do what it does for the community without our wonderful volunteers. On the first Tuesday of February, we launched a new initiative in 2022. Every Tuesday, we will shine the light on a wonderful volunteer. On this Thankful Tuesday, we are so grateful for two wonderful volunteers, Fred and Jane Nott, who currently serve as Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers. We asked them a few questions to help share their Red Cross stories.
When did we become a volunteer for American Red Cross?
In 2010, we began our training, then were deployed to Hurricane Sandy the next year.
Why did we become volunteers for the American Red Cross?
Jane: I wanted to do something substantive and meaningful after retirement. I admired and valued the experiences of my friends who were deployed to 9/11.
Fred: It’s important not to just retire from something, but to retire to something and I like the Red Cross’s attitude of expecting nothing from clients. I like person to person contact when someone has a crises.
What is your favorite aspect of volunteering for the American Red Cross?
Jane: Knowing that I am giving hope, comfort and a positive connection to others. Enjoy getting to know some great people who work with the Red Cross.
Fred: Helping people get needed assistance in the middle of a crises. And, the comradery of like minded volunteers.
How has our experience impacted you and others?
Jane: We always remember when we get a call in the middle of the night for help that our inconvenience is so small compared to the travesty the client(s) is go through.
Fred: It gives me purpose instead of concern for myself.
Are you interested in helping your community during a disaster? If you answered yes, we need you! Click here to learn more about how to become a Disaster Action Team volunteer and to apply today.