Three opportunities for fast-track training offered
What:
Three opportunities for the four-hour fast-track disaster relief training sessions offered by the American Red Cross of Northeastern New York for those who wish to assist with the current disaster relief efforts throughout Northeastern NY, stretching from Poughkeepsie to Plattsburgh.
Who:
Any person interested in responding to disasters caused by Hurricane Irene who:
- Is 18 years of age or over
- Is able to lift at least 35 pounds
- Has a valid driver's license and can travel throughout Eastern New York
- Will consent to a background check (free of charge)
- Is available for several days over the next two to four weeks
Of particular interest are volunteers who may work for the State of New York and are therefore eligible to invoke NY State's Disaster Leave Law, which may allow them to be released from work for up to three weeks without penalty.
When: Three opportunities for fast-tracked disaster training will be offered by Red Cross staff and volunteers on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm in Albany, on Thursday, September 1, 2011 from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm in Poughkeepsie, and again on Tuesday, September 6, 2011 from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm in Poughkeepsie. (Please note: only one training session is required). Following the training, new volunteers will be deployed regionally to the areas in need from Poughkeepsie to Plattsburgh. Where: Wednesday, August 31, 2011 - 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm United Way of the Greater Capital Region 1 United Way, Albany, NY Thursday, September 1, 2011 - 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm Nubian Directions Building 248 Main Street Poughkeepsie NY Tuesday, September 6, 2011 - 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm Nubian Directions Building 248 Main Street, Poughkeepsie, NY Details: The American Red Cross needs many additional volunteers to assist in the response to unprecedented flooding, evacuations and power outages following Hurricane Irene. With more than 35 shelters currently open, and the potential for additional shelters in the coming days, volunteers are needed in shelter operations, feeding, bulk distribution of supplies (comfort kits and cleanup kits, etc.), recovery information distribution, disaster assessment, counseling and emotional support, disaster public affairs, disaster nursing, and many other support areas. Please call the American Red Cross of Northeastern NY at (518) 458-8111 to register. Please forward this message to those you think may be interested in assisting. | 
