This Disaster Action Volunteer Sums it up.

By Volunteer Debra Slade

The call to be a volunteer stands out as a powerful testament to human empathy, compassion, and the desire to make a tangible difference. It transcends geographical, cultural, and social barriers, uniting individuals with a common purpose. No where do we see that more clearly than in our Disaster Action Teams (DAT). In this region alone, they respond to an average of 2 house fires per day and they’ve been doing that ever since this program started which was 60 years ago.

One volunteer who felt that call to service as a DAT responder and other positions with the American Red Cross, is Jon Grasle. He is a volunteer in the Cascades Red Cross Region and sat down with me to share his story. Our conversation was a reminder of the commitments he’s made and the selflessness of those commitments. But, he’ll be the first to tell you it’s not all about him. He said it’s about helping others and being part of a team that is committed to that. He loves the clients he serves especially when he gets to see them face-to-face. He also loves educating his community about what we do, and how we can help. He also loves being part of a team committed to helping others.

Volunteering is more than a call to action that resonates deeply with those who recognize the value of giving back. Whether it’s responding to natural disasters, supporting humanitarian efforts, or providing essential community services, volunteers play a crucial role in addressing the needs of society. I asked Grasle what inspires him to go out on a house fire call on the darkest of nights. His reply was simple. “The client needs me.” He’ll also tell you it’s not just about him. He goes out on these calls with a team. He’s right, but none of these volunteers have been on over 499 Disaster Action Team (DAT) calls.

 At the heart of volunteering lies a profound sense of purpose. For many, the decision to volunteer is fueled by an inherent desire to contribute to the greater good. This sense of purpose gives volunteers a reason to step outside their comfort zones and dedicate their efforts to causes that matter. It is the realization that their actions, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect of positive change.

Grasle said his most memorable call out was a multigenerational residence fire. This family had lost everything. “It’s especially hard when children are involved,” says Grasle.

He gave a small girl a stuffed unicorn and said the look on her face will stay with him forever. In this terrible space of loss this gift brought her happiness. Even, in the presence of terrible suffering, there was a place for light. The opportunity to make a meaningful impact in situations like this is a compelling reason for individuals to get involved. Grasle said the most rewarding part of responding to a disaster call is his ability to give immediate assistance to those involved.

Grasle embodies this in his positions with the American Red Cross that includes DAT (Disaster Action Team), HSFC (Home Safety Fire Campaign), Transportation Specialist, and many more positions.

As he approaches his 500 response, Grasle’s continued promise to help is beacon for those who wonder if anyone will come on the darkest nights to help when things can seem hopeless.

We recognize John Grasle and the hundreds of DAT responders in our region who, over the past 60 years, have shown up to assist people during one of the worst days of their lives.

If you are interested in getting involved as a volunteer, go to RedCross.org/volunteer and we’ll get you started on an incredibly rewarding path.