Emergency and Disaster Relief

Disaster Relief – Earthquakes, floods, migration crises, epidemics, hurricanes and armed conflicts: in the event of a disaster, we must take action quickly and efficiently. When natural disasters occur, many organizations (such as the Red Cross, the UN, or the Doctors Without Borders) step in to provide emergency services and tangible support to those in need.

The formation of these teams and the equipment used follow international standard protocols, which significantly ease procedures when rescue personnel from different countries find themselves working together.

People from all walks of life may seek shelter, quality water and food, in times of crisis. Whatever the crisis, Disaster Relief groups work tirelessly to assist those directly affected by the disaster.

Emergency Response Units/Organizations might look for both professional volunteers and unskilled volunteers. It’s always good to check with the volunteer coordinators before applying. You need to be ready for the tasks at hand.

Some facts

• 90% of all of the natural disasters are water-related.
• 25.3 million people are displaced each year by sudden-onset disasters.
• Estimated annual economic losses: US$250 – 300 BILLION.

Sources: United Nations

Become a disaster relief volunteer – How it works

This is a new section of our website. On this page, you can find volunteer programs that give you the chance to be part of a disaster relief program worldwide.

Read the volunteer program description very carefully. At the end of each announcement, you will find the “contact details section” where you can find emails, websites, and other instructions. Check the date of the announcement (sometimes the opportunity might be already out of date).

Disaster relief volunteer opportunities

If you own an organization, or an NGO, and you are looking for volunteers, feel free to add your listing