(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The American Red Cross of Southeastern Colorado announced on Tuesday, Oct 1, that it urgently needs volunteers who are willing to travel and support emergency shelters for major national disaster relief efforts. Red Cross disaster volunteers provide people with a safe place to stay and make sure all their basic needs are met. They also help with other critical services such as mental health support and replacing lost medications or medical equipment. “When disasters upend lives, Red Cross volunteers are on the frontlines providing refuge and comfort to people in their darkest hours,” Phil Martinez, executive director of the American Red Cross of Southeastern Colorado said. “They truly are the heart and soul of the Red Cross — comprising 90% of our workforce — to help ensure families never face a crisis alone.” Interested individuals can sign up online. All candidates must complete the necessary training and commit to a two-week deployment. Applicants who have no disaster experience, but have supervision, management, or organization skills, a strong desire to help others, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment are encouraged to apply. As of Monday, Sept. 30, more than 900 Red Cross disaster responders are on the ground across 10 states impacted by Hurricane Helene. The Red Cross said as extreme weather worsens, disasters are becoming more intense and frequent, prompting the Red Cross to respond continuously. To register, head to the website linked above.