Oct 19, 2008

Pres Notes

Hugs to the DOVEs,

We had a Board conference call Friday and I thought it was time you got some more info from us. I have a couple of purely informational pieces and some other stuff. I plan to add a link on the web page to get to this out on a regular basis. We will also email it and snail mail it. We don’t want anybody to feel left out. Look for more regular info in the future.

Item 1. I am still holding course completion materials for several who took the ERV course in Gillette. I will be sending out an email to all who listed email but if others who see this know folks who participated please tell them to contact me.

Item 2. The board wants all of our members to know that we really need to know the problems you are some having on DROs. We need to know if things are not being done according to the Statement of Understanding. We also need to make sure we all understand what the statement says. We have heard reports of recent problems which did not come directly to our attention.

We all love to share info. That’s what SKPs do. Unfortunately we need to be absolutely certain that  the info we share is correct. When we are less than certain we need to look at the statement and any possible Red Cross policies pertinent to the question. If you don’t know the answer, or question a ruling, let me know. I will endeavor to find the real, correct answer. I will contact NHQ personnel and do all I can to get the answer. I will respond to you as soon as possible. Don’t get any more frustrated than you already are. Give me a chance to help.

Also, help yourself. Take a copy of the statement with you when deployed. Give it to Staff Services if there are questions. Oops, I forgot a step! Read the Statement!! Know what you can expect and what you deserve before requesting something else.

Item 3. Since some Board members have encountered questions in the area of how we can fit into the plans of the Red Cross I want to take a few lines to begin some dialogue in this area. Begin with what you already know how to do. Can you work a computer, drive a forklift, manage resources? What did you do in your working life? What do you want to do now? What would you like to learn which could benefit the Red Cross?

When the Red Cross responds to disasters, particularly major ones, the operation is much like a mini-society, or city. Clients need places to live, life’s necessities like food and water, material things, and a lot more. The Red Cross has to mobilize enough personnel resources to see that these immediate needs are met. All jobs from computer whiz to warehouseman need to be filled.

Look to your skills, the client needs, and the needs of the Red Cross. There are really lots  of ways to fit better.

This area will be continued…