Disaster Response Team Member

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In an emergency you'll be there to help when someone needs it most. We provide free training to the right people-so they can help make a difference.

Our BOTG Disaster Response Teams (BOTG-DRTs) are entirely staffed by volunteer members specially trained to deploy domestically and around the world. We've deployed all over the world-you can too.

The primary goal of BOTG-DRT members is to help the greatest number of people as effectively as possible during rapid response missions after major natural or man-made disasters. Volunteers can be an asset, but they can also be a hindrance-depending on if they're prepared, trained, and organized-or not.

Typically our BOTG-DRT members operate in front line conditions and facilitating the effective distribution of humanitarian aid to people in need. Responsibilities vary considerably according to the nature of the situation, but can include:

• rapidly assessing emergency situations; working closely with staff located within the area or other emergency departments
• coordinating and supporting the work of volunteers
• managing budgets
• managing the implementation of emergency activities and monitoring their effectiveness
• producing response reports, recommendations and proposals for emergency intervention
• developing and monitoring objectives
• liaising with United Nations agencies, government officials, colleagues etc
• recruiting/managing local staff
• organizing induction, support and training for volunteers/other aid workers
• implementing, overseeing and ensuring strict adherence with security/safety procedures
• ensuring knowledge of and compliance with appropriate national and international procedures, policies and regulatory codes
• making representations to donors, local authorities and humanitarian community members
• producing funding proposals

Qualifications and training required:

Specialist knowledge is important, and good degrees in subjects such as medicine, engineering, languages or social sciences can be useful. But we accept volunteers from all backgrounds-especially those who've served in uniform. And we train them to standard so they can impact people's lives, rather than becoming at risk themselves in disaster zones.

These are the key characteristics we look for:

• Enthusiasm
• Good networking skills
• Commitment
• Good communication, in both English and local languages
• Analytical skills
• Ability to plan well
• Computer literacy
• Tact, discretion and diplomacy
• Team working skills