#2 Classes start

Hola,

Just finished my first two classes in preparation for leaving. DIsaster, and Mass preparedness. There were 100 volunteers there. Usually there are 2.

We watched videos, asked questions and filled out papers...lots of papers. No one will be hopping on a plane tomorrow. More classes to go through first, health checks and approval.

We were told today that we can not go to N.O. yet.... for our safety. Only the military is being allowed in at this time, however, we will be deployed anytime from the next two weeks or so through November, in 9-21 day stints to surrounding areas, as well as Houston, Mississppi, Alabama, and perhaps a few other states.

This is the biggest operation that the Red Cross has ever undertaken, and they are understandably nervous about sending in so many newbies like me with so little experience, but they need the people. They are shorthanded.

Once there, the RC pays for everything. You are given a card to charge things on...with limits of course. No day at the spa...sob...

Help includes shelter setup and operation, food, clothing, mental health, mobile food services for those still in a semi livable house, or even living in their car.....and a lot more. No one is called a "victim" Anyone in need of assistance is a "client."

Special care will be given to children and some women's issues. Even dietary requirements such as vegitarianism, or cultural food preferences will be seen to and provided.

This is all done through generous donations and volunteers. No "client" pays for any part of it. Volunteers only give their time and their empathy.

The 100 volunteers in my classes included doctors, nurses, mental health professionals, teachers, retirees, a courier, a moderately well known actor and his wife, and 1 jeweler,(guess who?). Just about every profession seemed to be represented. I was pretty impressed at the turnout and by the devotion to help that everyone expressed.

Makes me think its a pretty cool world after all....although I did read the French newspaper Le Monde this morning. The headline read:"The World Extends a Hand to a Humiliated America". It made me laugh out loud. Apparently more than 60 countries have offered or sent us aid. Thanks guys.

If you are interested, I will keep you updated, in the mean time go out and do something,volunteer, or just give some money. Money is always good.

Best,

Lisa