Where can I learn how to volunteer in the disaster areas in China or Maymar?

Question

I'm currently abroad and traveling to Hong Kong in 5 weeks and have a Hong Kong and Chinese visa. I want to volunteer in the disaster areas of Asia. The international Red Cross has very little information. Who should I contact?

Answer 1

Most organizations that provide disaster relief use either their own experienced staff (paid or volunteer), or local people who can be quickly trained and are already in the area. It is very rare that a person from outside the area would be used unless the person is already either a part of the agency/organization or at the least very experienced in disaster relief.

If you have experience working on a disaster response you might try contacting the Red Cross Society of China or Myanmar. Or you could try other groups; for example Catholic Relief Services.

You might also check with your Country's Consulate or Embassy in China to see if they have any suggestions.

I don't think it's very likely that you'll be able to volunteer in these areas. If you are interested in doing disaster relief your best bet would be to join an organization that does this type of work before a disaster strikes.