L to R: Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHR) Coordinator Joann Galardy led a panel on the DSHR deployment experience at Chapter Headquarters on April 3. (Photo: Tim Pitokiak)

Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHR) Coordinator Joann Galardy and a panel of experienced DSHR members - Field Communications Coordinator Sidney Ko; AmeriCorps member Terra Robinson; Senior Director of Response Diego Pardo; Volunteer Partner, Mental Health, Dottie Brier; and Volunteer Partner and Bronx DAT Captain Arturo Guzman – discussed the DSHR deployment experience, both local and national, on Thursday evening, April 3, at Chapter headquarters in Manhattan.  

More than 40 people were in attendance and the stories told were as diverse as the panel – from Arturo Guzman's passionate speech about empowering clients to be part of their own solutions to Terra Robinson"s humorous take on the lack of privacy in a staff shelter.  

"The members of the panel each did an outstanding job of sharing their personal deployment stories and bringing to life the challenges and rewards that are part of the experience.  I think their knowledge and advice will help others to be better prepared to serve on future disaster relief operations," Joann Galardy said.

The recurring message throughout the evening was the fulfillment that comes from meeting the needs of Red Cross clients. Being part of DSHR is an important part of being a Disaster Volunteer, whether someone is available to serve locally or able to travel nationally on a three-week assignment.  If you have any questions about DSHR, contact Joann Galardy at galardyj@nyredcross.org.