In the past, New Yorkers have demonstrated their desire to help those in need by volunteering in large numbers immediately after a major disaster affects the city or the nation. Since volunteering with the Red Cross requires advanced training, many well-intentioned residents were unable to help others.

That's why the Chapter has created the Disaster Reserve Program. Disaster Reserves are trained in disaster response and called upon only in the event of a major local emergency, like to Queens blackout in 2006. Disaster Reserves are expected to have at least four interactions with the Chapter each year, either at responses, training, drills or other events.

To facilitate Disaster Reserve Volunteer training, the Chapter offers a one-day Reserve Institute. Click here for more information about Disaster Reserves and the Reserve Institute.

The American Red Cross in Greater New York relies on volunteers to do great things every day. Whether helping fellow New Yorkers prepare for emergencies, providing training in lifesaving skills, assisting victims of disasters, connecting families, or simply lending a helping hand to members of the community. Without our more than 2,500 volunteers, there would be no Red Cross.

Our volunteers receive as much as they give, and often much more. They come from a variety of cultures and from all walks of life. Many want to help after a major disaster, such as the World Trade Center attacks of 2001 or Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Others wish to donate their professional expertise to benefit members of their communities.

What do our volunteers say they get in return? Satisfaction. Fulfillment. Enrichment.  Gratification. A spirit of belonging and giving. The opportunity to do great things every day.

Time commitments vary according to the area in which you choose to volunteer. Many volunteers work regular weekly or monthly shifts. Others chose to be reserve volunteers and respond only to major local disasters. Although our need for volunteers is greatest during weekdays, many evening and weekend opportunities are also available. To determine which opportunities best fit in your schedule, click here.

To become a volunteer, please start by completing the online application and then registering for a Volunteer Orientation. For more information, please read our step-by-step guide to becoming a volunteer.

Adult volunteers must be at least 18 years old. Volunteers who are 14 to 18 years old are encouraged to join the American Red Cross in Greater New York Youth Group. For more information about the Youth Group, please contact the Assistant Director of Youth Services at 1-877-REDCROSS (877-733-2767) ext. 2158, or visit the Youth Group Web page.

There are many internship opportunities available within different support areas, ranging from marketing and IT to administrative support. For more information, please contact Volunteer Resources at 1-877-REDCROSS (877-733-2767) ext. 2068.

Yes, although you must have experience with disaster response as a local Red Cross volunteer. To acquire that experience, you must register, train and serve with your local chapter. If you live within the Greater New York area, you can begin this process by completing the online application and registering for a Volunteer Orientation afterwards. If you live outside of the Greater New York area, you can find and contact your local chapter.

All Red Cross volunteers receive comprehensive training for the tasks they will perform. Training for international assignments is particularly vigorous and extensive. The best way to qualify as a Red Cross international volunteer is to begin training at a local Chapter. Click here for more information about International Red Cross programs.

Thank you for your interest. However, our volunteer opportunities are ongoing and require specific training and orientation. Due to the nature of training, short-term opportunities while visiting New York are not available.

The Code of Conduct outlines the standard policies and principles by which all American Red Cross volunteers and employees are required to abide. The Code of Conduct is used in an effort to maintain the high standard of conduct expected and deserved by the American public and to enable the organization to continue to offer services required by those in need.

Background checks have been an area of focus at the American Red Cross and encouraged for many years. However, after the fraud and waste that occurred during our work aiding those affected by the hurricanes of 2005, it was decided that mandatory background checks on all employees and volunteers were necessary. Red Cross continues to reaffirm our accountability to the American public. The background check initiative, coupled with our previous efforts on this front, will help us achieve a more efficient and safer work environment for our employees and volunteers.