How can i volunteer to help out the midwest flood victims?

Question

i know money is a way, but i dont have much money and want to go volunteer to work, or stack sandbags etc... and experience or advice?

Answer 1

CharityFusion.com allows you to give donations without paying extra. You shop online (even for necessities that you'd have to buy-- toilet paper, computer & printer accessories, iTunes, cleaning supplies, clothing, pictures, food, etc.) and a percentage of that will go to your cause. You can start a fundraiser on there too, so you can invite others to give money this way. It's really neat because you buy this stuff anyway, even if you're low on cash you have to buy some stuff. And then, you're making a donation without paying any extra. It's basically silly to buy stuff anywhere else, because with this, your giving a donation when normally this money would just go to the merchant. Just check it out, I think it would help in your situation. www.charityfusion.com

You can also go to volunteermatch.com and select a location affected by the flood area. They will probably have postings of places that need volunteers. Doing both of these things would be a great help.

Answer 2

I am in the exact same situation. I would love to fly out and physically help in any way that I can (with sand bags and such as you had mentioned). Please let me know if you find any opportunities and good luck to you.

Answer 3

I'm in Ecuador and Internet is my only current connection. I did some surfing and haven't found much except for the Red Cross. It would be worth a phone call to see what they have going, but don't get too discouraged if they turn you away. It is a harsh fact that untrained, inexperienced volunteers are usually more trouble than help. The prepared volunteers started their training before the need arose.

A common way to start is going there and getting busy. Unfortunately, it ain't cheap. It's much cheaper to make a donation. In a disaster area, a cheap motel that is still functioning ain't cheap any more. There aren't basic services. Camping is -- a disaster. Let me put it in the hysterics of all caps: IT IS A DISASTER AREA. They need high dollar equipment and skills. The disaster victims are all the disoriented, unsure people the current workers can handle.

Still, if you're determined and resourceful, some suggestions might be: Call local businesses and see if they need somebody to carry in goods they'd like to donate. Check with local fire departments, churches, etc. to see if they're helping and looking for volunteers. Scour the newspapers for folks who have started initiatives.