A note about volunteering during a disaster

Often we want to go to the nation and offer our services. However, unless specially trained in disaster relief, communications logistics, search and rescue and medicine, a volunteer is actually more of a hindrance than a help. Precious time is taken from those who are truly in need. The aid organization has a greater obligation to help those in need. The best thing to do is to donate your time at home with organizations that send aid. The boxes and materials have to get sorted and stacked. It's not as glamorous, but remember, the situation is about getting the victims the needed assistance from those who are trained to give it to them quickly and accurately. For more information, visit http://www.cidi.org/guidelines/guide_ln.htm