Jobs in Disaster Relief

by Valorie Delp | More from this Blogger

17 May 2008 07:10 AM

As much of the world has done, I have watched in horror the utter destruction of parts of China which has overshadowed the tragedy in Myanmar by its press coverage. I have a close friend in China right now. She is safe, but was near the quake and has shared briefly that there is utter destruction and hopelessness all around. She is a trained EMT and can help, but as a foreigner is powerless to do so unless invited. In honor of her, and the recent tragedies that have occurred in Asia these last two weeks I've decided to write about jobs in disaster relief.

A Satisfying Career

I recently did a series of blogs on the best careers to have. One measurement of a great career was the job satisfaction it gave you. Consequently, high ranking "best careers" included a doctor, physician's assistant and paramedic. I would have to include in my list then, a career in disaster relief. This involves helping people when they are at a crisis point in their life. Although it is high stress in times of disaster, nothing gives more satisfaction than being able to assist those in need.

Prepare for a Little Volunteering

Experts in disaster relief management say that the way to get your foot into the door is to start out volunteering. By volunteering you can gain valuable experience in actually responding to a disaster, but also it's a way to hear about job openings in the field. Also, some organizations tend to hire within so if you have an eye on a specific type of position, it's never bad to get your foot in the door.

Something Else Besides Gore

Some people are hesitant to get involved in disaster relief because they can't handle the site of blood and guts. So maybe the paramedic gig isn't your thing. . .there are other positions in disaster relief management.

Some people coordinate basic needs for families stricken by disasters. For example, negotiating with local hotels to put families up who suddenly find themselves homeless. Or providing meals, blankets, food and water in shelter situations.

There's also the fundraising aspect. Organizations like the Red Cross, and other relief providing agencies are always in need of funds. If you think you'd be good at development, that's a way to give back and help people without having to be in the field.

As we watch events unfold, whether they are close to home or far away, I would urge you to think about what you can do to assist victims of a disaster. If it were you, you would welcome desperately needed help.

Valorie Delp shares recipes and kitchen tips in the food blog, solves breastfeeding problems, shares parenting tips, and current research in the baby blog, and insight, resources and ideas as a regular guest blogger in the homeschooling blog. To read more articles by Valorie Delp, click here.

Learn more about Valorie Delp

Hello everybody! My name is Valorie and I am one busy lady! When I'm not writing or editing for families, I am busy trying to get my brood of 5 in line.

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