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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mission of the American Red Cross?
The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement, will provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.
What is the definition of a volunteer?
A Red Cross volunteer is an individual who, beyond the responsibilities of paid employment, freely assists the American Red Cross in the accomplishment of its mission without expectation or receipt of compensation.
What roles do volunteers play at ARC?
As the largest humanitarian organization in the United States, the Red Cross depends on volunteers to accomplish the organization's mission: providing relief to victims of disasters and helping people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. We provide training for most volunteer positions, with the level of training varying according to the requirements of the position and the qualifications of the individual. Volunteers serve at all levels of the Red Cross, including:
- Serving on the Board.
- Serving in leadership positions such as coordinators of disaster operations & activities, supervisors on disaster relief operations, and chapter (local unit) managers.
- Performing direct services such as local disaster response and mass care or training in CPR, First Aid, and HIV/AIDS education.
- Performing support activities such as volunteer recruitment, marketing and public relations, fund raising, community outreach, facilities maintenance, logistics and administrative support.
- Serving on advisory groups, task forces and committees at the local, state and national levels.
- Mentoring and supervising youth programs and Red Cross clubs.
- International services.
- Providing emergency communications and referrals to military families
How many hours per week do most volunteers work?
The number of hours a volunteer works depends on what job they are performing, and how many hours they have available. Some jobs require people to carry a pager (Disaster Action Team members) and be on call for a week at a time, while other jobs require a couple of hours a week. In addition, some volunteers are on-call for large-scale operations only. We are committed to finding a schedule that works for both of us.
I volunteered with a Red Cross chapter in another state and recently moved to Washington . How do I become a volunteer with the Mt. Baker Chapter?
If you have been an active volunteer with another chapter, please contact the Mt. Baker Chapter Volunteer Services department at volunteer@mtbredcross.org or call 360-733-3290 ext.1015 for more information. You will be asked to complete paperwork including a request to transfer your record from your previous chapter.
I live in a small community and there is no Red Cross office near me. Can I still become a volunteer? Absolutely yes! The Mt. Baker Chapter is dedicated to having a presence in as many of our communities as possible, including yours! Please complete the on-line application process and schedule an interview to learn more about how you can help your community.
Does the American Red Cross and the Mt. Baker Chapter conduct background checks on volunteers?
Yes. The Red Cross believes that in order to maintain the trust of the American people and provide them with the best quality service, Red Cross employees and volunteers must undergo background checks. When a victim of a house fire or a hurricane needs help, they know they can trust a Red Cross volunteer. Donors can rest assured that when they give to the Red Cross, their blood or money is protected. When an individual makes a decision to volunteer or work for the Red Cross, they know they are in trusted company. You will receive more information on completing your background check during your New Volunteer Orientation.
If I become a volunteer with the Mt. Baker Chapter, am I eligible to participate in large disaster relief operations in other states?
Eligibility for deployment to national disaster relief operations is a part of Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHR). Once you are an active disaster volunteer with the chapter, you may apply to become a DSHR member. The training you receive as a chapter disaster responder (through course-work and on-the-job mentoring), will increase your capability as a DSHR member.
I belong to a group that would like to volunteer together. What should we do?
The Mt. Baker Chapter can provide short-term volunteer opportunities for groups. For more information please e-mail volunteer@mtbredcross.org. Include your name and contact information, the name of your group and link to Web site (if you have one), and what your specific volunteer interest is.
I am under 18 years of age. May I volunteer with the American Red Cross?
Yes. The Red Cross highly values the contributions of young adults. You would be asked to have your parent grant you permission to volunteer with us.
How do I get involved?
It's easy! Take a moment and view our opportunities, then fill out an application and schedule an interview. We are here to guide you through the process and to find the best match for you. Welcome!
Fill out an online application. Click here to view application process.
Click here to view our current volunteer opportunities.
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