Marines on Okinawa can make difference via Red Cross

10.16.2009

Story by Sgt. Aaron Hostutler 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

The American Red Cross on Okinawa is always looking for a few good volunteers, according to Red Cross officials here.

The American Red Cross, which was founded in 1881 by Clara Barton, has been one of the nation's leading emergency response organizations dedicated to providing relief to victims of disaster and emergencies. It branches out from U.S. borders to locations where U.S. military personnel are stationed around the world including Okinawa. But no matter where the location, the American Red Cross is run almost entirely by volunteers.

"What we do here couldn't be done without the hard work of volunteers," said Michelle Mays, the senior station manager for the Red Cross on Camp Foster. "They are the ones who enable all of our programs to take place."

The Red Cross has several volunteer opportunities for Marines and sailors who want to make a difference, she said.

"There are so many ways to make a contribution," said Mays, who has worked with the Red Cross for more than 14 years.

"Some people want to work with their hands and stay as far away from a desk as possible. Others work really well with computers and want to help out that way. No matter what a person's specialty may be, we can find something for anyone," she said.

One opportunity is the Disaster Action Team, a team that responds to local disasters such as typhoons or fires. Free training is available for anyone interested in being a part of the team.

"It gives you a break from your typical duties, but you get a real sense of helping out," said Sgt. Alvin Magneson, an aviation communication system technician with Marine Air Support Squadron 2, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and a DAT volunteer.

Another opportunity is certification as a health and safety instructor, to teach people valuable skills including cardiopulmonary resuscitation, pet first aid and the use of an automated external defibrillator, a medical tool used to repair irregular heart beats.

"You're basically teaching people to save lives," Mays said. "You never know when someone is going to pass out at the commissary or an accident will happen right in front of you on Highway 58. The Red Cross focuses on preparedness. You never know when the knowledge will be useful, but it's best to always be ready."

Other volunteer opportunities include helping at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa and Department of Defense Dependent Schools.

"It can be a lot of fun," said Magneson. "You get to meet a lot of different people, do a lot of different things and see a lot of different events. I enjoy it every time I go out." Volunteering also benefits the volunteer in other ways.

Volunteers gain valuable job experience in several different areas and recognition for time spent volunteering and also develop a sense of pride for their efforts, Mays said. "A main benefit I have noticed is a sense of satisfaction in knowing you are part of something bigger than yourself," Mays said.

Volunteer orientations are hosted the first Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. and every third Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the American Red Cross on Camp Foster.

For more information, call 645-3800.

• Date Taken: 10.16.2009
• Date Posted: 10.20.2009 01:13
• Story ID: 40369