Red Cross Response Team Is Expanding

The American Red Cross has expanded its Rapid Response Corps and is looking for young adults interested in educating communities about safety and providing help in emergencies.

Ninety-six people from around the country will spend 11 months teaching earthquake and emergency training to children and seniors, as well as responding to disasters locally and nationwide, officials said.

Workers ages 18 to 27 will be assigned to offices in Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, Honolulu, Atlanta or Phoenix, and will be given a weekly allowance for living expenses and health care coverage. Each will receive a $4,725 educational scholarship upon completion of the program.

Red Cross officials said the program, which begins Sept. 22, primarily needs workers in Dallas, Miami and Honolulu.

The Rapid Response Corps, which had 42 members last year, responded to four national disasters, including the Sacramento area floods in January and February, and the Texas floods of June and July, program officials said.

In addition, participants work at community health fairs and assist in Red Cross projects, such as repainting school buildings, restoring playground equipment and rebuilding earthquake-damaged homes.

Applicants must have at least one year of volunteer experience and have a valid driver’s license.

To apply with the Rapid Response Corps, submit a resume to Meredith Drake, c/o American Red Cross-Los Angeles Chapter, Rapid Response Corps, 2700 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90057; fax (213) 380-0362, or e-mail DrakeM@arcla.org