“I still remember seeing the home,” Darren Courtney shared, reflecting on one of his first volunteer experiences with the American Red Cross. As a newly trained member of the Disaster Action Team, a group that provides humanitarian support in the wake of a home fire, Courtney recalled, “It was my first time offering this service to someone in the community. We arrived as quickly as we could, and the firefighters were still working to extinguish the flames.”
When a home is affected by a fire or other disaster, residents, their friends, or the fire department can contact the local Red Cross Disaster Action Team. Volunteers respond promptly, working with those impacted to identify resources and support to help them cope with their loss. Within hours of a disaster, volunteers often arrive with blankets and water to offer comfort and assistance. Courtney noted, “I have witnessed firsthand how a compassionate volunteer can empower someone to navigate the overwhelming emotions brought on by a disaster.”
Courtney has lived in Sutter and Yuba Counties for his entire life and became involved with the local Red Cross Disaster Action Team in 2015. Understanding the vital role the Red Cross plays in helping those affected by disasters, Darren was inspired to join as a volunteer after a Red Cross supervisor encouraged him to get involved. “I was drawn to these services because I wanted to support people in my own county during trying times.”
The Red Cross also plays a critical role during large-scale disasters. When neighborhoods are forced to evacuate due to floods, earthquakes, or wildfires, the organization provides shelters for evacuees. These evacuation shelters offer a temporary space where individuals can sleep and receive meals. What often goes unseen is the effort put in by volunteer teams to organize and operate these shelters. “From opening a shelter for the first evacuee to closing and cleaning supplies for future operations, I’ve seen all sides of a full disaster shelter operation,” said Courtney. “It’s exhausting, but I remain committed because I know I’m providing an essential service. Everyone deserves a place for basic stability during a disaster, and I’m honored to help provide that.”
The American Red Cross disaster programs also offer volunteers opportunities to take on new responsibilities and pursue their passions. “I’ve had the chance to support over 20 shelters in the Northern California region and over 20 shelters outside the area,” Courtney shared. “I’ve transitioned into volunteer management roles, and it’s been rewarding to expand my leadership skills while collaborating with passionate, talented individuals across the country.”
In addition to gaining expertise in disaster shelter operations, Courtney uses his professional background to contribute to the Red Cross’s outreach efforts. Drawing from
his experience in interviewing and radio broadcasting, Courtney plays a key role in coordinating communications through radio stations. “It feels great to use my professional skills to support the mission.”
The American Red Cross team depends on compassionate volunteers to make a difference in moments of crisis. Whether you’re looking to give back to your community, develop new skills, or be a source of hope during difficult times, there’s a place for you in the Yuba-Sutter County Red Cross family.
Visit RedCross.org/volunteer to learn more and take the first step toward making a meaningful impact today.
