Q&A: Storm relief nonprofits need volunteers, learn how you can help

Many volunteers and nonprofits have done what they can to help Oklahomans in need. They also need more help across the state and in the future. 

Q: What is needed for storm relief efforts? 

A: A lot of the metro nonprofits need more volunteers.

“Volunteers are a rare breed.” Chad Detwiler, the president and chief executive officer of Recovering Oklahomans After Disaster. “Sadly, it’s not a small time for disasters. We’re gonna continue to have disaster survivors in need.”  

Detwiler said many victims of storm damage lack adequate financial means to afford homeowners' insurance. A lot of damage results in out-of-pocket repairs that people cannot afford. Detwiler's organization prevents people from becoming homeless after severe weather. 

“What we want to do is make sure that doesn’t happen,” Detwiler said. 

Q: What skillset is required to volunteer?  

A: Some skills for certain positions can help, but no skillset is necessary. 

“Our project managers are experienced contractors who can teach and train them – everything that they need to know to put that house back together,” Detwiler said. 

Q: How do I become a volunteer? 

A: The Oklahoma Red Cross has an assessment that people can take to find the best fit for volunteer work. Detwiler only requires one characteristic. People interested in volunteering can visit disasterroad.org

“[People who are] willing and available,” Detwiler said. “That’s all we need.”  

Matt Trotter with the Oklahoma Red Cross said the Red Cross always needs more help. 

“Disaster relief is only possible because we have great volunteers who step up and do the work,” Detwiler said. “Even if you have a background in, say, logistics or finance, we have volunteers doing that kind of work.” 

Detwiler said teamwork builds community, and love heals pain. 

“Just takes a little bit of time, a little bit of effort, and a whole lot of love,” Detwiler said. “I think so. I think love drives everything that we do. I think the more that we show some compassion through our own love, that’s been shown to us by other people, the more that we have the capacity to love others.” 

A: How are recovery efforts going after the weekend’s storms? 

Q: Red Cross officials said they have helped about a dozen people in Ada with shelter. They will continue to be available to those who need a place to stay during cleanup efforts.

Anyone in need of assistance can call 1-800 RED CROSS (1-800) 733-2767).