Red Cross to host volunteer meetings
Volunteers are needed
Wanda English Burnett - Editor

The Ripley County Chapter of the Red Cross is looking for a few good men and women! Those wishing to help others in their community have the perfect venue to do just that by participating in the local chapter of the American Red Cross.

"When disasters strike, the Red Cross needs to be ready for the unexpected," noted local Director Sandy Vanderbur. Being ready means having people trained.

According to Vanderbur the goal for the Ripley County Red Cross for 2006 is to recruit and train volunteers to be prepared when disaster strikes.

She noted that disasters can range from tornadoes to terrorist attacks. "As citizens of Ripley County, we should feel compelled to get involved and prepare for disasters," she noted.

The Ripley County Red Cross will be hosting two disaster volunteer information meetings to help individuals understand what the organization does and what volunteers can do to help. The first meeting will be held Tuesday, February 7 at the Ripley County Red Cross Office in Versailles at 133 West Tyson Street and the second meeting will be held on Thursday, February 9 at 125 George Street in Batesville.

Vanderbur noted that you do not have to register for the meetings, but if you have any questions you can call the office at 812-689-6308.

"Volunteering teaches the value of service and community involvement," noted Vanderbur, adding, "You meet other people with similar values, learn about the community and the issues affecting it, you make a positive contribution to the community and/or those in need, you learn new skills, you promote civic responsibility, relate to other generations and you foster a sense of being a part of the community."

Monies collected for victims of hurricanes last year is proof that people in Ripley County are compassionate, caring citizens. Vanderbur encourages those interested in helping their neighbor to come on board with the Red Cross and volunteer.