Moving to St. Louis in August, I was unsure of what to expect out of my AmeriCorps experience. Everything that I have been taught and have learned has been like being thrown into a cold lake in February, awakening all my senses to what I had not expected. I came to the Red Cross not knowing much about the organization or much about the disasters that strike the cities across the U.S. daily, much like the majority of the population.

When you think of a disaster happening you think of other cities, other states, even other countries. You never think of your city, your town, your block, but it happens. And it has been very apparent during my time here with AmeriCorps.

There have been so many house fires, floods and tornados that I have responded to where the families had this similar mind set. “I never thought this would happen to me” has come out of so many conversations it is now becoming more and more shocking to hear. I say it is more shocking because the amount of natural disasters that occur, you would expect the communities to be aware. The sad truth of it is that not many people have the knowledge of how to prepare. That is something that we are trying to rectify through AmeriCorps with the American Red Cross. Going to schools, religious organizations, businesses etc. teaching people how to make a plan, get a kit and be informed. It is a slow process but it is more helpful in the long run.

Being on the Disaster Services side of things, I see firsthand how disasters can destroy someone’s life in the matter of minutes. There have been a few lucky informed ones who had a kit ready to go and were able to salvage some of their belongings, but for others, they were not so lucky. When you respond to a family who has just lost everything but is so overjoyed to see you there to help them-to give them that little boost- is more than enough payment for me. Their smile through their tears, a hug through the sadness is simply something you must experience for yourself. So if you have any interest in volunteering in your community I encourage you to join one of the many great organizations in your area, such as AmeriCorps or the American Red Cross. And get things done for America….. your America.

Kathrine

Kathrine Vigil is the AmeriCorps NPRC Response Member for the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter.