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Steve Blackwell

Steve Blackwell retired from the Olathe Fire Department in May 2005. As he watched the television coverage in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Steve realized there was likely a need for the skills he had acquired as a fire fighter. A former colleague referred Steve to the American Red Cross, where he signed up to be a Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHR) volunteer.

American Red Cross DSHR volunteers serve on disaster operations nationwide for up to 21 days at a time to assist with feeding, sheltering, mental health, and communications operations. Steve’s first DSHR assignment was in New Orleans over Thanksgiving. For three weeks, Steve worked with other Red Crossers providing bulk distribution – handing out supplies such as water, ice, and toilet paper – from a playground at a middle school.

Steve Blackwell“I enjoy the disaster response,” Steve said. “I enjoy helping the people, being out there with them. I want to be on the frontline, out there with the people.”

In thinking back on his time in New Orleans, Steve remembers an elderly woman that lived across from the playground where he worked in distribution. “Her name was Ruthie,” Steve recalled. “She came by every day to thank us and to give us all hugs. Sometimes she brought us lunches, and she always thanked us for being there.”

Steve has gone on two more assignments since returning from New Orleans – first to St. Louis for the wind storms last year, and then again last summer to Montgomery, Ala., in preparation for Hurricane Ernesto.

“Steve’s background as a fire fighter and experience as a Red Cross volunteer on national and local disasters has been invaluable,” said Ken Cope, director of emergency services. “He also instructs other volunteers locally in the National Incident Management System used by first responders during a disaster.”

Because of volunteers like Steve, the Red Cross can be there to assist victims of natural disasters on their road to recovery. If you are interested in learning about volunteer opportunities with the Red Cross, please call (816) 931-8400.
American Red Cross
Greater Kansas City Chapter
211 W. Armour Blvd.
Kansas City, MO 64111 USA		         Phone 816-931-8400
Fax 816-531-7306		 United Way Member Agency

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