BATON ROUGE - The American Red Cross in Louisiana has put out a call looking for volunteers as the nonprofit ramps up efforts to prepare for flood threats resulting from winter storms.

“While we urge our neighbors living in communities threatened by these floodwaters to keep informed about conditions and remain prepared, we encourage those who can serve to join our team,” said Merri Alessi, executive director of the Red Cross in the Louisiana Capital Area. “Come out for training and be ready to help when the time comes.”

Volunteers make up about 90 percent of the organization’s total workforce. They make it possible for the Red Cross to respond to close to 70,000 disasters each year.

The Red Cross is always seeking volunteers with various backgrounds, talents and skill levels. Their needs are often tailored to current events and ground support efforts, but they say this year requires an especially diverse group of recruits.

The nonprofit is offering upcoming classes in the Capital Area that focus on activities most needed during and after a disaster.

Shelter/Feeding Fundamentals introduces the guidelines and procedures for setting up, running and closing a shelter during a disaster.
Wednesday, Jan. 13, 6-9 p.m. American Red Cross, 4655 Sherwood Common Blvd., Baton Rouge. 

Red Cross officials say it is vital for potential volunteers to register and receive training in advance of when response is needed. Trained human resources allow the state to take care of itself, decreasing the need for response from outside the area.

Disaster Assessment Fundamentals prepares participants to conduct Detailed Damage Assessments accurately, efficiently and safely when assigned to a disaster response.
Thursday, Jan. 14. Two offerings: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. American Red Cross, 4655 Sherwood Common Blvd., Baton Rouge.

Contact Jodi Tolliver at Jodi.Tolliver@redcross.org or at (504) 620-3130 if you have questions about volunteering.