Spring has finally arrived and many of us are busy planning all sorts of activities now that the winter season is over. Since April is national Volunteer Month, why not consider volunteering? Many people find great satisfaction in setting aside time to help others in their rneighborhoods, community groups, places of worship and other settings.

Our city is fortunate to be filled with people who step forward and help those in need during difficult times. You have demonstrated this fact time and time again. However, It’s important that people who want to volunteer have the proper training in the event that disaster should strike.

During a disaster, there’s not enough time to properly train volunteers for specialized duties – which can put them to better use.

This week I joined Leo Messier, Director of the Providence Emergency Management Agency (PEMA), and representatives from the Rhode Island Red Cross, in launching a citywide campaign to recruit 400 shelter volunteers from every neighborhood of the city.

These shelter volunteers will be assigned to one of the city’s 13 emergency shelters after receiving 21 hours of training in several key areas: Disaster services, first aid CPR, mass care, social service skills, all phases of shelter operation. The training is provided free of charge – paid for the by the Red Cross. To participate – you must be 16-years or older – or accompanied by an adult.

If you would like to sign up to become a PEMA shelter volunteer, or would like more information, please click on the link below. The City of Providence greatly appreciates your dedication and service. Thank you. DNC