SYP learns about the American Red Cross

As part of their Emergency Management Agency Month, the Saipan Young Professionals featured John Hirsh of the NMI Chapter of the American Red Cross as this month’s inspirational speaker.

Hirsh is the current executive director and senior disaster program manager for the non-profit organization.He shared general information about the Red Cross, their services, volunteer programs, and information from their recovery efforts in the aftermath of Supertyphoon Soudelor. He shared that approximately 180 youth volunteers and over 330 regular volunteers have donated their time and effort toward the Red Cross’ typhoon relief and recovery programs.

From left, Saipan Young Professionals co-chair Bobby Cruz, Jeaniffer Cubangbang, American Red Cross-NMI Chapter executive director John Hirsh, Victoria Aldan, Jiana Camacho, and Camille Orallo pose for a group shot. (Contributed Photo)

“We’ve reached over 18,000 volunteer hours since Typhoon Soudelor,” said Hirsh. He stated that many of the organization’s regular volunteers continue to work daily to help in assisting those most affected by the Typhoon. Looking back at Typhoon Soudelor, Hirsh pointed out the importance of “Catastrophic Planning” to ensure a smoother process following a major natural disaster.

“No one anticipated that Typhoon Soudelor would be as strong as it was,” said Hirsh. He encouraged SYP members, whether it is at their job or in their home, to run “what if?” scenarios to ensure that they are prepared for natural disasters in the future.

Aside from discussing the role that the Red Cross organization plays in the CNMI, Hirsh also pointed out the role that the organization plays in communities throughout the country.

“Whether you are experiencing the typhoon in Mexico, a fire in California or the typhoons in Saipan, the American Red Cross is somehow woven into people’s everyday lives,” said Hirsh.

He shared that the organization does much more than just disaster services, they also focus on Preparedness and Health & Safety Services, Biomedical, Service to the Armed Forces, and International work.

During the presentation, SYP members Jiana Camacho and Victoria Aldan shared their recent volunteer experiences with the Red Cross and encourage other young professionals/youth to be proactive in making a positive difference. SYP chair Mable Ayuyu thanked Hirsh and the NMI Chapter of the American Red Cross for their assistance immediately after the typhoon.

“From this presentation, I’ve learned that it’s important to have a ‘Disaster Plan’ in place, especially if you are running a business. There were many challenges that were a direct result of Typhoon Soudelor, but it’s important to keep in mind that you can learn from your experiences. You learn how to react in a way that is effective in the face of calamities or natural disasters,” said Ayuyu.

She also mentioned that many resource groups were formed because of Soudelor, including the VOAD, CNMI C.A.R.E., and Project Ayudu, to name a few. “There were events put together like the Business Recovery Fair, hosted by the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, all aimed towards educating the public to start formulating their disaster recovery plans for their homes or businesses,” adds Ayuyu.

Looking into the future, Hirsh said that the Red Cross will be starting their Case Management work, providing an opportunity for volunteers to work on a part-time basis to assist in gathering data from families who have registered for assistance with FEMA and the American Red Cross. He shared that much can be done to assist the Red Cross fulfill its mission, whether it would be to assist in outreach to young children or to dedicate your time to becoming a regular volunteer. The Saipan Young Professionals thanks John Hirsh and the American Red Cross-NMI Chapter for continuing to make a difference for the CNMI.

For more information on any upcoming programs or events under the Saipan Young Professionals Committee or the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, feel free to contact the Chamber office at 234-7150 or visit our website (www.saipanchamber.com) or our Facebook page. Our office is also located at Suite 315, 3rd floor of Marianas Business Plaza in Susupe. (SYP)