American Red Cross First Aid Service Team

2012 Youth Officers Elected!

2012-02-08T11:07:00.000-08:00

Following the elections held during the monthly meeting held on Tuesday, February 7th, FAST is pleased to announce our new youth officers.

President: Gabe Wihtol
Vice President: Kyle Freeman
Publicity Chair: Brandon Teel
Equipment Committee: Jaime Kim, Katelyn Battle, and Gabe Wihtol

From everyone involved in the FAST program, we sincerely wish the new officers much success in the coming year.

Thank you, to all who attended the meeting. The turnout was greater than expected, thanks to the commitment of our fantastic volunteers.

2012-01-24T11:40:00.000-08:00

FAST Team Meeting and Elections Tuesday, February 7th.

We will elect officers for the Team--your attendance is vital.
We will also learn the START triage system,. This training is required to work at the USOT.
And we will be planning a FAST social event!
The meeting will start at 1800, and as always, food is involved.
Attendance at the monthly meetings is important--please attend if you can!

January FAST Meeting

2012-01-11T12:47:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year FAST Members and Visitors!

Yesterday was our January FAST meeting, during which we discussed the two FEMA tests necessary to volunteer for the United States Olympic Trials in June this year. FEMA is the acronym for Federal Emergency Management Agency. FEMA is an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security whose job it is to coordinate the response to disasters that occur in the United States that are beyond the ability of local and state authorities.

The two tests that are necessary for FAST volunteers to volunteer for the USOT are the ICS-100b and the ICS-200b. ICS is the acronym for FEMA's Incident Command System. ICS is a system which allows for efficient emergency response during a disaster. (For a more in-depth description of what the ICS system is, visit its website at http://www.fema.gov/emergency/nims/IncidentCommandSystem.shtm.)

Both of these tests are free of charge and upon passing, will allow FAST members a better understanding of what response action must be taken in a disaster situation.

The web URL for the ICS-100b is http://training.fema.gov/emiweb/is/is100b.asp and the web URL for the ICS-200b is http://training.fema.gov/emiweb/is/is200b.asp.

Again, both of these tests are necessary for the lawful participation in volunteering in the 2012 United States Olympic Trials.

Hold FAST to your New Year's Resolutions FAST members, we hope to see you at FAST's New Year's Party on the 23rd!

Red Cross Holiday Catalog

2011-12-12T16:27:00.000-08:00

Winter Events (Dec & Jan)

2011-11-22T11:51:00.001-08:00

Fri, Dec 2 - Ducks Game #8 Pac-12 Championship @ Autzen Stadium
CONFIRMED: Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 2pm, or meet at the South Gate at 2:30pm. If you cannot meet until later due to school/work, you can still volunteer. Email Nathan with your expected arrival time.
Adults: Shirley, Earlene, Al, Nathan, Erika, Alex, Jill, Mike, Dana
Youth: Sarah, Gabe, Ben, Alexis, Kieko, Roari, Bree, Megan, Brandon, Zack, Kyle, Andrew

November Events

2011-11-21T05:26:00.000-08:00

Weds, Nov 9 - CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer Review @ Red Cross, 5p - 8p
This is a review course for FAST members. All volunteers are encouraged to attend to refresh their skills and renew their certifications (good for two years.)

Sat, Nov 19 - Ducks Game #6 vs. USC @ Autzen Stadium
CONFIRMED TIMES: Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 2pm or meet at the South Gate at 2:30pm
Adult: Jill, Mike, Earlene, Shirley, Dana, Derek, Nathan, Jeff

Youth: Zack, Katelyn, Bree, Megan, Gabe, Emma, Andrew, Brandon, Kyle, Jon, Kieko, Peter

Sat, Nov 26 - Ducks Game #7 (Civil War) vs. OSU @ Autzen Stadium
NEW TIMES: Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 9:00am or meet at the South Gate at 9:45am
Adult: Jill, Mike, Earlene, Dana, Al, Nathan, Alex, Derek

Youth: Rio, Zack, Kyle, Megan, Bree, Gabe, Emma, Roari, Ben, Brandon, Andrew, Jon

Winter Weather Policy

2011-11-18T14:27:00.001-08:00

According to the forecast, below freezing temperatures and snow are likely this weekend and the Eugene area may experience its first bout of winter weather this season. On weekdays, the local school districts will make a decision early in the morning regarding school delays and closures. If the Eugene School District (Eugene 4J) closes for the day, then the Oregon Pacific Chapter will be closed except for essential Emergency Services personnel. If Eugene 4J closes, any FAST meetings will be postponed. FAST volunteers should check their email and phones for notices about any FAST events scheduled for those days.

Please refer to Eugene 4J's school closing information to learn more about their policies.

In the meantime, be sure you are prepared for and know how to respond to a winter storm with Winter Storms Disaster Tips.

Red Cross Holiday Catalog

2011-11-15T13:35:00.000-08:00

Tweet with FAST!

2011-11-10T11:21:00.001-08:00

We know you love FAST. Now you can become tweeps* with FAST on Twitter. Follow us @OPC_FAST for the latest First Aid Service Team tweets. You can also follow via email or SMS text messaging!

*Twitter + peeps = tweeps. Brilliant!

Holiday Mail for Heroes

2011-11-02T17:24:00.000-07:00

Holiday Mail for Heroes is back! For a fifth year, the American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes are partnering to ensure that all Americans have an opportunity to send a touch of home this holiday season to members of the U.S. military, veterans, and their families.

The Oregon Pacific Chapter has already received more than 100 Holiday Mail for Heroes cards. You can add your own to the effort, or organize your friends, family, or any group of people to make a bundle!

For details, please visit Holiday Mail for Heroes.

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-10-25T09:27:00.000-07:00

I hope you've been following the WWW on the Oregon Pacific Chapter's Twitter. If not, here's the Wrap-Up from last week.

By Scott Waggoner
American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

CAMBODIA: Flooding continues in Southeast Asia due to heavy monsoon season rains, ravaging many provinces in Cambodia. TheCambodian Red Cross is working to evacuate people to higher ground, compiling lists of evacuees, and distributing relief aid to over 36,000 families.

THAILAND: Almost 2.3 million people have been affected as heavy flooding has washed its way down from northern provinces to the outskirts of Bangkok. The Thai Red Cross has been responding to these floods since they started in June, and so far have reached more than 500,000 people in 32 of the 60 flooded provinces.

SWITZERLAND: At the Assembly of the ICRC earlier this week, the organization's governing body appointed Peter Maurer as the ICRC's next president. Maurer is currently Switzerland's State secretary for foreign affairs, and succeeds Jakob Kellenberger, the ICRC president since 2000, who expressed the wish to retire at the end of his third term.

COLUMBIA: On the afternoon of October 17th, 10-year-old Nhora Valentina Muñoz was handed over to the ICRC in a rural part of Arauca, after 18 days in captivity. The ICRC has been active in Colombia for 30 years and has regularly helped facilitate the release of persons deprived of their liberty.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

October Event Sign-Ups

2011-10-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

Thurs, Oct 6 - Ducks Game #3 vs. California @ Autzen Stadium
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 3pm OR meet at South Gate at 3:30pm
(or as close to 3:30 as possible if you are coming from school)
Youth: Jacob, Peter, Brandon T., Katelyn, Vinh
Adults: Dana, Al, Shirley, Jill, Earlene, Ken, Derek, Jeff, Kate, Nathan

Sat, Oct 15 - Ducks Game #4 vs. Arizona St. @ Autzen Stadium
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 4:00pm OR meet at South Gate at 4:30pm
Youth: Bree, Zack, Kyle, Sarah, Elliana, Megan, Ben, Kieko, Marisa, Peter, Gabe (at 5p), Emma, Maddy
Adults: Shirley, Mike, Jill, Alex, Earlene, Al, Kate, Jeff, Dana, Nathan

Sat, Oct 22 - Festival of Bands (FoB) @ Autzen Stadium, 8a - 6p
3 shifts. Station will be inside the Mo Center.
Shift 1 (8a - 1p)
Youth:
Adult: Earlene, Derek

Shift 2 (1p - 6p)
Youth: Dennis, Gabe
Adult: Michael, Derek, Alex

Shift 3 (6p - 11p)
Youth:
Adult: Alex, Derek

Sat, Oct 29 - Ducks Game #5 vs. Wash St. @ Autzen Stadium
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 9:00am OR meet at South Gate at 9:30am (NEW TIME!)
Youth: Bree, Gabe, Zack, Kyle, Rachel, Brandon T., Dennis, Megan, Emma, Roari, Andrew
Adults: Shirley, Mike, Jill, Al, Alex, Erika, Earlene, Nathan, Derek

Sun, Oct 30 - Monster Mash 5K @ Alton Baker Park, 10:30a - 1p
Youth: Elliana, Sarah, Rachel, Gabe
Adult: Jill

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-09-29T16:55:00.000-07:00

From Kate Swartz
American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

PAKISTAN: In response to some of the worst floods on record, thePakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) deployed volunteers trained to operate water treatment plants, pump accumulated water, and turn it into safe drinkable water. They have so far reached over 127,000 people with 638,700 litres of safe drinking water. Over 39,000 water purification tablets or sachets have been distributed to more than 6,200 people.

PHILIPPINES: Two years after two typhoons devastated the island of Luzon, the IFRC and the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has ensured that more than 3,500 displaced individuals have homes. The PRC has installed 21 communal water supply points, and constructed or rehabilitated water and sanitation facilities for 30 schools that were affected by the typhoons.

NEPAL: Red Cross National Societies from three countries have joined emergency relief efforts to bring aid and medical care to the survivors of the deadly earthquake that struck the Himalayan region bordering north India and Nepal on September 18.

TUNISIA: The ICRC is helping to meet the needs of people fleeing the conflict in Libya and of the local population. Work is under way that will result in a considerable increase in the volume of water supplied to some 100,000 people.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

FAST on the front page

2011-09-15T14:09:00.000-07:00

The front page of the Register Guard hasn't ever looked so good (or so prepared!) Way to go, FAST!

AUTZEN’S RED TEAM | A squad stands ready to help football fans in medical trouble

September Events

2011-09-13T11:28:00.000-07:00

Sun, Sep 4 - Eugene Women's Half Marathon in Eugene (map), 7:30a - 12p
Two stations at this event. Final details TBA soon.
Adults: Earlene, Shirley
Youth: Maddy, Emma, Curtis, Ben, Gabe (until 8a)

Sat, Sep 10 - Ducks Game #1 vs. Nevada @ Autzen Stadium
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 9:30am OR meet at South Gate at 10:00am
Adults: Jill, Earlene, Mike, Al, Derek, Erika, Nathan, Ken, Jeff B.
Youth: Gabe, Kyle, Zack, Emma, Rachel, Sarah, Alex, Bree, Brandon T., Megan, Vinh, Peter, Kieko, Katelyn, Roari, Maddy, Jessica, Jon (until 2pm), Jacob (at 12:30)

Sat, Sep 17 - Ducks Game #2 vs. Missouri St. @ Autzen Stadium
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 9:30am OR meet at South Gate at 10:00am
Adults: Jill, Earlene, Mike, Erika, Al, Derek, Nathan, Dana, Jeff B.
Youth: Gabe, Zack, Emma, Rachel, Marisa, Megan, Jacob, Alexis, Curtis, Ben, Kyle, Peter, Bree, Andrew, Roari (until 3p)

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-09-01T11:36:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

LIBYA: Libyan refugees in Tunisia and people displaced within Libya itself are returning to their homes in many areas in the Jebel Nefusa including Jadu, Nalut and Zintan where the ICRC distributed3,000 hygiene parcels and some 18,000 cans of food to returnees.

HORN OF AFRICA: Today, The American Red Cross announced an additional $1.7 million contribution toward the ongoing crisis in the Horn of Africa. This additional pledge was made because despite widespread relief efforts in the region, massive humanitarian needs persist, with 12 million people impacted by three years of crippling drought.

BANGLADESH: The IFRC launched an appeal for 1.3 million Swiss francs to provide emergency relief to support 50,000 people affected by the widespread floods in Bangladesh. The American Red Cross has contributed $50,000 to the cause.

USA: Thousands of Red Cross disaster workers are working in the major relief operation along the eastern seaboard launched by the American Red Cross to help people in the path of Hurricane Irene.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter

August Events

2011-08-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

Sat, Aug 6 - Jr. Gems Roller Derby @ Willamalane Ctr. for Sports & Rec, 12p - 6p
Youth: Zack, Ben, Brandon C. (until 5pm)
Adult: Harvey (until 4:30p), Derek

Fri, Aug 12 - Jr. Gems Roller Derby @ Willamalane Ctr. for Sports & Rec, 1:30p - 4p
Youth: Zack
Adult: Nathan

Fri, Aug 26 - Eugene Celebration @ downtown Eugene, 3p - 12:30a
Shift 1 (3pm - 8pm)
Youth (2): Rio
Adult: Earlene

Shift 2 (8pm - 12:30am)
Youth: Rio, Dennis
Adult: Dana

Sat, Aug 27 - Eugene Celebration @ downtown Eugene, 10:30a - 12:30a
Shift 1 (10:30a - 3:30p)

Youth: Kyle, Brandon C.

Adult: Earlene

Shift 2 (3:30p - 8:30p)
Youth: Marisa, Brandon C. (until 4pm), Rio (at 4pm)

Adult: Al

Shift 3 (8:30p - 12:30a)
Youth: Gabe, Rio, Emma

Adult: Jeff B.

Sun, Aug 28 - Eugene Celebration @ downtown Eugene, 10:30a - 6:30p

Shift 1 (10:30a - 2:30p)

Youth: Brandon C., Jaime, Alexis

Adult: Earlene

Shift 2 (2:30p - 6:30p)

Youth: Rachel, Kyle

Adult: Shirley

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-08-25T10:36:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

LIBYA: The ICRC has begun distribution of medical and surgical kits to hospitals in the capital city of Tripoli. The ICRC has had a permanent presence in Tripoli since mid-April of this year.

NORTH KOREA: An emergency appeal has been launched by IFRC to providesupplies of food and non-food relief, shelter materials, clean water and health careto 30,000 people who have been badly affected by storms and floods. The American Red Cross will contribute $50,000 for the international response in North Korea.

SOMALIA: With the opening of the four new feeding programs, Somali Red Crescent feeding centers now cover the whole country, including all areas most affected by malnutrition. Somalia has been in the grip of a severe drought since October 2010.

IRAQ: The ICRC released a film today that highlights the difficulties of Iraqi women who shoulder the burden of caring for their families alone. An estimated one million women struggle to feed their families and continue to depend on outside help.

USA: Hurricane Irene is the first major hurricane of 2011 threatening the East Coast and the American Red Cross is preparing for a full disaster response. The Red Cross urges people to get a three-day supply of water, food that doesn’t require refrigeration, flashlights, a battery-operated radio and a first aid kit. Irene could affect blood collections along the East Coast and The Red Cross is urging those who are eligible to give blood prior to the storm’s arrival.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-08-18T12:32:00.001-07:00

MALAWI: 120,000 long lasting insecticide treated mosquito nets are being distributed by the Malawi Red Cross with support from the IFRC.

ETHIOPIA: The Ethiopian Red Cross is providing camels for a number of families who have lost their livelihoods in Ethiopia.

KENYA: The Kenya Red Cross's 'Kenyans for Kenya' has raised approximately $5 million to deliver immediate food, water, and health assistance to those suffering from the current drought.

COTE D'IVOIRE: The Red Cross of Côte d’Ivoire, with support from the IFRC has rolled out the first phase of its emergency assistance for almost 1,000 familiesfrom 17 communities in the Toulépleu Prefecture affected by the crisis that followed the controversial results of the 2010 presidential elections in the country.

USA: Paul Olson, 79, makes his 400th donation of blood at the American Red Cross Headquarters for the Penn-Jersey region.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-08-11T11:37:00.001-07:00

PHILIPPINES: Safe drinking wateris now only a few steps away for over 1,200 residents of Mabini, a remote community in Northern Samar province, after the completion of a spring catchment built with support from the ICRC.

SOMALIA: The ICRC is scaling up its emergency operation in central and southern Somalia to assist an additional 1.1 million drought- and conflict-affected people.

SUDAN: Almost half a million conflict-affected people in Darfur have been givenseed and agricultural tools by the ICRC in time for the planting season and the first rainfall.

RWANDA: The ICRC has renovated a shelter for more than 300 children. Since 2009, nearly 70 children separated from their parents by armed conflict have been among those accommodated in the shelter while the ICRC traced their families.

WORLDWIDE: The Measles Initiative has officially vaccinated one billion children.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-07-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

SOUTH SUDAN: Volunteers for the newly formed South Sudan Red Cross went out on their very first operation - monitoring and assisting people attending the celebrations to mark the birth of the Republic of Southern Sudan.

PAKISTAN: Volunteers are helping families prepare to face the oncoming monsoon season.

YEMEN: Since mid-June, the ICRC and the Yemen Red Crescent Society have provided aid for more than 17,500 people who have escaped the fighting in Abyan and settled in Lahj.

ZIMBABWE: Medical equipment donated by the ICRC is helping bring newborn babies back to life.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Summer is a great time to learn!

2011-07-20T14:58:00.001-07:00

Late July Events

2011-07-19T13:28:00.000-07:00

Fri, July 22 - Fiesta Latina @ Island Park, 5pm - 11pm

Youth (2): Andrew

Adult: Derek?

Sat, July 23 - Fiesta Latina @ Island Park, 11:30am - 11pm

Shift 1 (11:30am - 5pm)

Youth (2): Brandon T.?

Adult:

Shift 2 (5pm - 11pm)

Youth (2):

Adult: Derek

Sat, July 23 - Bite of Eugene @ Alton Baker Park, 11am - 10pm

Shift 1 (11am - 4pm)

Youth: Alexis, Brandon T.?

Adult: Earlene

Shift 2 (4pm - 10pm)

Youth: Alexis, Gabriel, Jaime

Adult: Jill

Sat, July 30 - Hardesty Hardcore Trail Run @ Hardesty Mountain, 7:30am - 1pm

3 stations for this event

Youth (6): Brandon C., Gabe

Adults (3): Shirley

Do you like us?

2011-07-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

Of course you like FAST! But do you Like us on Facebook, too?

If you have a Facebook account but haven't checked out our page yet, visit FAST on Facebook and 'Like' the page to get the latest FAST updates as well as interesting local, national, and international Red Cross content!

July Events

2011-07-14T16:03:00.000-07:00

Fri, July 15 - Springfield SummerFair @ Island Park, 4:30pm - 10:30pm
Youth: Gabriel
Adult: Jeff B., Derek (5pm)

Sat, July 16 - Springfield SummerFair @ Island Park, 12:30pm - 10:30pm
Shift 1 (12pm - 5pm) This shift is for a booth that will feature disaster preparedness information and an interactive activity to teach children about the contents of a disaster kit.
Youth: Gabriel, Dennis
Adult: Earlene

Shift 2 (12:30pm - 5:30pm) - First Aid Station
Youth: Brandon C. (til 4:30pm), Brandon T., Curtis
Adult: Al

Shift 3 (5:30pm - 10:30pm) - First Aid Station
Youth: Gabriel
Adult: Mike, Derek

Sun, July 17 - Springfield SummerFair @ Island Park, 11:30am - 4pm
Youth: Brandon C., Dennis
Adult: Earlene

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-07-14T12:09:00.001-07:00

By Robin Parker

American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

SOMALIA: Levels of malnutritionhave reached a new peak and are currently the highest in the world. The ICRC and the Somali Red Crescent plan to open ten new feeding centers while mobile teams made up of nurses and nutritional specialists will visit people in the areas worst affected.

SUDAN: Since fighting first erupted in Kadugli in early June, the ICRC has been providing support for the humanitarian activities of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society - delivering clothes, shelter materials, hygiene items and household essentials for 18,000 people.

SOUTH SUDAN: A new national Red Cross society for a new nation - The South Sudan Red Cross is formed of staff and volunteers who have until recently worked for the Sudanese Red Crescent Society, which continues to operate in Sudan.

TURKEY: More than 10,000 Syrians, fleeing domestic unrest, have been living in six ‘tent cities’ near the border for over a month. The camps are run by the Turkish government, while relief supplies and personnel are being supplied by the Turkish Red Crescent Society.

CYPRUS: More than 100 Cyprus Red Cross volunteers were mobilized in the wake of a massive explosion that ripped through a naval base in the south of the country.

VIETNAM: A Vietnam Red Cross team has provided relief and financial assistance to more than 400 families affected by flash flooding in Nghe An Province.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-06-23T10:51:00.001-07:00

CHINA: The Red Cross Society of China has deployed an emergency water unit to provide clean, safe drinking water to the flood hit Hubei province.

TURKEY: As the numbers fleeing unrest in Syria the continue to rise, Turkish Red Crescent is responding to their immediate needs, providing shelter, meals, health and psychological support in government-run camps close to the border.

SENEGAL: In cooperation with the Bignona medical district, the ICRC has helped build and equip a new maternity facility in an area hit hard by armed violence. "Until now, there was nothing but a basic sheet-metal shelter set up for childbirth," said a nurse from the village.

NIGERIA: A total of 31 teachers from 20 Nigerian universities gathered in Abuja to attend a three-day training course on international humanitarian laworganized by the ICRC.

SOMALIA: The ICRC has just completed a distribution of seed and tools for more than 95,000 people in drought-stricken areas.

KENYA: Water from a rock - The Red Cross has completed the Kawalash rock catchment system, a new water project that will benefit some 5,000 residents of the Ol Donyiro area in northern Kenya.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-06-09T12:19:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

LIBYA: The ICRC continues to address urgent humanitarian needs, and - in a joint operation with the Mines Advisory Group - has starteddestroying hundreds of unexploded devices in the city of Ajdabiya.

YEMEN: Four months of civil unrest have taken their toll, with dozens of people killed or wounded. The ICRC and the Yemen Red Crescent are evacuating the wounded and the dead in Sana'a, and helping to supply water to the population. Elsewhere in the country, they are providing first aid for people affected by the violence.

TUNISIA: In the border area of south-eastern Tunisia, a massive influx of refugees from Libya is putting huge pressure on water resources already stretched by increased needs resulting from the onset of the dry season. The ICRC is providing support for the national water board to boost the supply of drinking water in areas of that have been particularly hard hit.

LIBERIA: As Ivorian refugees continue to seek safety in Liberia, the Red Cross is providing seeds and tools to enable the host communities to replenish their depleted food stocks.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

June Events

2011-06-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

Email Nathan to sign up for one of the events listed below.
Red font means volunteers are still needed.

June meetings will be on the following days:
Monthly Meeting - Tuesday, June 7, 6pm - 7:30pm @ the Red Cross
Summer Skills Night #3 (NEW DATE!) - Wednesday, June 22, 6pm - 7:30pm @ the Red Cross

Sat, Jun 11 - Boy Scouts Day of Service @ Alton Baker Park, 9a-1p
Volunteers will alternate between the first aid station or helping with park beautification projects.
Youth (6): Rachel, Derek
Adult (2): Dana (9a-11a), Jeff (11a-1p)

Mon, Jun 13 - UO Graduation Celebration @ EMU Amphitheater (UO Campus), 8a-5p
There will be flexible scheduling for this event. If you can help with a portion of the day, please contact Nathan to confirm when you can be at the station.
Youth: Derek
Adult: Dana (12p-5p)

Sat, Jun 25 - Badge Day @ the Red Cross, 9a-3p
Youth and adult FAST members will lead first aid and safety lessons for young Girl and Cub Scouts.
Youth: Gabe, Hannah, Brandon T.?, Jacob?, Brandon C.?
Adult:

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-06-02T10:21:00.001-07:00

HONDURAS: The ICRC is helping to mitigate the effects of violence in schools with a training workshop onhumanitarian principles and first-aid in the city of Tela.

Côte d'Ivoire: Tens of thousands of people have been displaced by fighting, other violence and looting over the past few months. The ICRC and the Red Cross Society of Côte d'Ivoire have begun to distribute food, seed and other emergency aid in 35 villages east of Bangolo.

AFGHANISTAN: Fighting has been ongoing west of Qaysar since early May,displacing thousands of people from more than 20 villages and triggering a distribution of emergency aid by the ICRC and the Afghan Red Crescent Society in this highly volatile, hard-to-reach part of north-west Afghanistan.

LIBERIA: The ICRC donated a complete sets of books on international humanitarian law, the branch of international law that governs armed conflict, to both the Ministry of Defence and the Liberian armed forces.

ICELAND: When Grimsvötn, a sub-glacial volcano in southeast Iceland, eruptedlast week Red Crossers immediatley opened two shelters, activated a 24-hour helpline and mobilized psychosocial support teams to help those affected.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

FAST Volunteer Wins National Award

2011-05-27T14:58:00.000-07:00

Congrats to FAST's very own Brandon Chambers for winning the prestigious Prudential Spirit of Community Award! Brandon traveled to Washington, DC in April to receive his award at a banquet at the Smithsonian and was honored again at the Thurston High School award ceremony.

Read more at the Register-Guard!

May Events

2011-05-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

Sat, May 7 - Youth MOVE Expo @ Florence Events Center, 11a-5p
FAST will host a disaster preparedness booth and offer informal blood pressure screenings
Youth: Brandon C., Rio
Adult: Earlene

Sun, May 15 - Jr. Gems Roller Derby @ Willamalane Ctr. for Sport & Rec., 1:30p-3:30p
Youth: Rachel, Derek
Adult: Earlene

Sat, May 28 - Ridgeline Ramble @ Ridgeline Trails, 7:00am - 12:00pm
Four stations at this event. Some stations close earlier than 12:00pm
Youth (8): Gabriel, Emma, Dennis, Kyle
Adults (4): Earlene, Shirley, Ken, Kathy

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-05-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

QATAR: Health professionals and other specialists from 10 different countries gathered in Doha to attend a two-week training course in the management of humanitarian aid, jointly organized by the ICRC, the Qatar Red Crescent Society and the University of Calgary - Qatar.

REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO: Residents of the department of Likouala remain in a precarious situation following the massive influx in 2009 of refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The ICRC is distributing farm and fishing equipment for almost 100,000 residents to ensure that food reserves will not be exhausted.

JAPAN: Red Cross and Red Crescent partners from around the world gathered in Tokyo from May 9-11 to review the response to the disaster so far and to discuss plans to aid long-term recovery. The American Red Cross has made another $30 million donation to the Japanese Red Cross, bringing its contributions to date to more than $160 million.

PAKISTAN: Pakistan Red Crescent Society workers are teaching residents about disaster preparedness in advance of the monsoon season, which last year caused massive flooding and landslides.

NAMIBIA: The Namibia Red Cross and the World Health Organization are partnering to prevent disease outbreaks during floods.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Red Cross Disaster Continuity Seminar for Businesses

2011-05-13T14:46:00.000-07:00

Is your (or your parents') workplace prepared for a disaster? How would they respond to the Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake that we blogged about last month?

Preparedness at the office--not just in the home--is essential for the well-being of a community (not to mention for the survival of a business). To help prepare workplaces, tell your parents and supervisors to check out the Red Cross Disaster Continuity Seminar on Thursday, May 19 from 9am - 11am with Oregon Red Cross member Steve Eberlein.

The seminar is $25 and space is limited. Please direct RSVPs and questions to Steve Eberlein, 503-528-5655. A representative from each participating business will receive the Business Continuity Planning CD.

Earthquake Preparedness Tips

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-05-13T13:11:00.001-07:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter
Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

LIBYA: A ship chartered by the ICRC arrived in Misrata this week, carrying medical supplies for the hospital, spare parts to repair water and electrical supply systems, and baby food for the civilian population.

NEPAL: A four-day emergency-room trauma course jointly organized by the ICRC and the Dhulikhel Hospital of Kathmandu University is taking place in Pokhara.

JAPAN: With healthcare systems left in crisis by the earthquake and tsunami, the Japanese Red Cross Society will provide vital medical infrastructure in one of the worst hit north-eastern areas, until damaged state services can recover.

SUDAN: The ICRC is working with government and local partners to vaccinate 100,000 cattle.

WORLDWIDE: The IFRC has announced the launch of the Nursing Network - a worldwide network of nursing colleges that will work together to ensure a global nursing workforce is ready to respond in the event of emergencies.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter

World Red Cross Red Crescent Day

2011-05-09T14:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, as everyone knows, was Mother's Day. (Did you remember to call Mom?) But did you know it was World Red Cross Red Crescent Day as well?

If you're a FAST member, you can proud to be part of a corps of 13 million volunteers from Red Cross, Red Crescent, and Red Crystal societies around the world.

If you're not a FAST member or volunteer in other Red Cross services, what are you waiting for? Visit the Oregon Pacific Chapter to find out how you can help the world's largest humanitarian network.

American Red Cross
IFRC - International Federation of Red Cross Red Crescent Societies
ICRC - International Committee of the Red Cross

Donate to the Red Cross...Colbert wants you to

2011-05-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

The Colbert Report

Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

Stephen Searches for Shared Bathroom Key

www.colbertnation.com

Colbert Report Full Episodes

Political Humor & Satire Blog

Video Archive

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-05-05T11:42:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

LIBYA: Among many activities, the ICRC conducted an emergencyevacuation of 1,381 Nigerians from Misrata, reunited five Libyan civilians with their families, andevacuated more than 2000 stranded foreigners from the port of Misrata.

GEORGIA: The remains of a person who went missing in connection with the August 2008 hostilities were handed over to the family by the Georgian authorities under the auspices of the ICRC.

BANGLADESH: The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society and ICRC are providing aid for more than 700 people following the recent violence in Khagrachari.

MYANMAR: Three years after cyclone Nargis made land fall in Myanmar, Red Cross teams are still helping people rebuild their lives.

JAPAN: Mobile medical teams are on the road, bringing care to the lost and lonely.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

FAST Station in Register-Guard column

2011-05-03T14:13:00.000-07:00

FAST's Station 5 (at the Valley River Center) got a mention in today's Register-Guard column by Bob Welch.

Read 'Go slow to really savor a marathon' to get Welch's fun perspective on the marathon and catch a little FAST publicity!

April & May Events

2011-04-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

Sat, April 2 - Shotgun Trail Blast 25/50K @ Shotgun Creek Rec. Area, 9a-3p
NEW CARPOOL TIME: Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 7:30am. Please bring rain gear, water, and a lunch or snacks.
We will staff 3 stations at this event: #3, #5, and #7. MAP
Youth: Alexis, Brandon C.
Adults: Shirley, Jeff B., Nathan

Sat, April 23 - King Estate Wine Country 5K @ King Estate Winery, 2:30p - 4p
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 1:45pm.
Youth: Jaime, Brandon C., Gabriel, Rio
Adult: Jill

Fri, April 29 - Memorial for Officer Chris Kilcullen @ Matt Knight Arena, 11:30a-4p
Youth: Elaina
Adults: Nathan, Ken

Sat, April 30 - Eugene 5K @ Skinner Butte area, 7:45a-10:30a
Meet at the corner of 5th & High St. Nathan will bring the supplies.
Youth: Rio, Elaina, Brandon
Adult: Mike

Sat, April 30 - UO Spring Scrimmage @ Autzen Stadium, 11:45a-3p
Meet in Lot 8 at 11:30am. Nathan will bring the supplies.
Parking is in lot 8; wear your FAST shirt for admittance.
Youth: Bree, Gabriel
Adult: Earlene

Sun, May 1 - Eugene Marathon @ multiple locations (MAP), 7a-3p (final time TBA)
8 stations and multiple shifts at this event
Youth: Jaime, Rio, Bree, Elaina, Dennis, Jessica, Roari, Alexis, Katelyn, Gerardo, Tim, Brandon
Adults: Earlene, Kate, Jeff B., Mike, Derek, Al

Sat, May 7 - Youth MOVE Expo @ Florence Events Center, 11a-5p
FAST will host a disaster preparedness booth and offer informal blood pressure screenings
Youth: Brandon C., Rio
Adult: Earlene

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-04-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter

SUDAN: Three years after beingabducted by an armed group, a teenage girl returns home with the help of the ICRC.

LIBYA: As fighting continues, the ICRC has stepped up its response - visiting detainees, providing medical supplies for hospitals, and delivering food and water that Libyan Red Crescent Society volunteers help distribute.

Côte d'Ivoire: The ICRC is bringing chemicals needed to treat the water that will be distributed to five million people for the next six months.

NIGERIA: The ICRC and Nigerian Red Cross Society are responding to the urgent needs of thousands of people displaced following post-election violence.

HAITI: Along with mosquito nets and in-person outreach, the Red Cross is usingtext messaging to fight malaria.

CHERNOBYL: 25 Years after the disaster, the Red Cross' Chernobyl Humanitarian Assistance and Rehabilitation Program still offers health screenings for survivors.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-04-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

JAPAN: With support from around the world, the Japanese Red Cross is assisting tsunami survivors as they begin moving into temporary housing.

NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Red Cross has provided assistance to 47,800 people affected by the Christchurch earthquake with support from other Red Cross societies, including the American Red Cross, which contributed $772,000 toward the relief efforts.

PARAGUAY: Red Crossers are helping fight what the Minister of Health has called "the worst dengue outbreak in the history of our country."

NAMIBIA: In response to floods that forced 37,000 people from their homes, hundreds of Namibia Red Cross volunteers have been on the ground assisting people to relocate, distributing mosquito nets and water purification tablets, while carrying out health awareness campaigns to prevent a major outbreak of waterborne diseases.

Côte d'Ivoire: Enhancing medical care for conflict survivors, the ICRC and the Red Cross Society of Côte d'Ivoire are stepping up their support for medical facilities in the country and are beginning to operate mobile clinics in Abidjan.

NEPAL: Experts from nine countries gathered in Kathmandu to participate in an eight-day training course on international humanitarian law jointly organized by the ICRC and the Kathmandu School of Law.

LIBYA: This week 618 foreign nationals were evacuated by sea from the city of Misrata by the ICRC with support from the Libyan Red Crescent. The ICRC is also sending another ship to Misrata with medical supplies, hygiene kits, food items and 8,000 liters of drinking water.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Earthquake Prep Video, Part 7

2011-04-15T09:56:00.000-07:00

Earthquake Preparedness Tips

Earthquake Prep Video, Part 6

2011-04-14T15:30:00.001-07:00

Earthquake Preparedness Tips

Earthquake Prep Video, Part 5

2011-04-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

Earthquake Preparedness Tips

Earthquake Prep Video, Part 4

2011-04-12T10:13:00.000-07:00

Earthquake Preparedness Tips

Review of April Meeting

2011-04-11T10:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who attended the April meeting. Mark your calendars for the first Summer Skills Night on Wednesday, April 20 from 6pm to 8pm. Wear your FAST shirt if you missed the ID badge photo session on Tuesday.

International Red Cross / Red Crescent news:

We watched a video about the situation in Cote d’Ivoire and how displaced persons in refugee camps (which we talked about in February and March) begin to find their relatives. Read here for more information.

Upcoming Events:

Check the blog for upcoming events in April and May. The big event to sign up for is the Eugene Marathon on May 1. We need lots of volunteers for our 9 stations—mark your calendars and email me to sign up now for the marathon or any other event!

Announcements:

--April is Earthquake and Tsunami Awareness Month. I encourage you to follow the seven-part series on earthquake information and preparedness that I’m posting on the blog and Facebook pages. It’s fantastic information about the Cascadia Subduction Zone, the area off the Pacific Northwest Coast that could be the epicenter of a magnitude-9.0+ mega-earthquake that has a 33% chance of striking in the next 50 years.

--The design contest to promote the Red Cross Month theme of “Join Us” is going on until April 30. Visit the National Youth Council (NYC) page for more information on entering a project. Winners receive $3,000!

--As mentioned above, Summer Skills Nights are starting this month and will happen every third Wednesday of the month until September. In April, we will talk about muscle/bone/joint injuries and level of consciousness (LOC) to help prepare us for the Eugene Marathon on May 1. All members (new and veteran, adult and youth) must attend 3 of 6 Summer Skills Nights to participate in the 2011 football season. The only exceptions are for members who give me advance notice of an absence and make alternative arrangements for training.

Fundraising Committee:

--The committee has gathered some potential “long-distance” events that FAST could provide first aid at (events on the coast, in the mountains, or in Portland). The committee also created a draft budget proposal for the cost of transportation, food, and the station itself. As we finalize the events and budget, we will then have a fundraising target. If you have suggestions for the Committee, please send them to Jessica (Fundraising Chair) or to me and I’ll pass them along.

Earthquake Prep Video, Part 3

2011-04-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

Part 3 of 7 of James Roddy's series on earthquake awareness and preparedness.

Earthquake Preparedness Tips

Earthquake Prep Video, Part 2

2011-04-07T10:09:00.000-07:00

As promised, here's Part 2 (of 7) of James Roddy's video. James Roddy is the Earth Sciences Information Officer for the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. If you missed Part 1, check it out!

Earthquake Preparedness Tips

April is Earthquake & Tsunami Awareness Month

2011-04-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

According to a declaration by Governor John Kitzhaber, April is Earthquake and Tsunami Awareness Month in Oregon. Do you know how to prepare for a catastrophic event? Even if you answer 'yes', you should read on.

The fantastic bloggers at the Oregon Trail Chapter in Portland are posting a seven-part series by James Roddy detailing what a catastrophic earthquake in the Pacific Northwest will entail and what you can do to prepare. It's too good--and too important--to not share it. Check out part one below and stay tuned for the rest of the series.

Earthquake Preparedness Tips

Red Cross Design Contest

2011-04-05T16:28:00.000-07:00

Don't forget, the National Youth Council (NYC) is inviting youth and young adults to design a creative medium to express what it means to join the Red Cross. Entries can be graphics or words, print or digital. One winner will be announced for each age group: Elementary/Middle School, High School, College, and Young Professional. Get your design on and submit an entry!

Visit the Red Cross Youth site for more details.

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-03-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker

American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

JAPAN: Red Cross relief in Japan is more than food and blankets. Psychosocial nurses are helping survivors deal with the emotional impact of disaster, while on the other side of the globe the Irish Red Cross has started an online message board for the public to post messages of support the people of Japan.

SOMALIA: The British Red Cross is supporting Somalia Red Crescent efforts to continue providing food, healthcare, water and sanitation facilities in response to a severe drought.

KENYA: The IFRC and Kenya Red Cross are taking early action to tackle drought.

Côte d'Ivoire: Before the fighting started, the city of Toulepleu had a population of between 40,000 and 50,000. Today, just 3,000 people remain in or near the town. Everyone else has fled. The ICRC and the Red Cross Society of Côte d'Ivoire have begun providing emergency aid for those who remain.

TUNISIA: Red Crescent volunteers have been caring for thousands of migrant workers stuck in the Djerba airport after fleeing the violence in Libya.

LIBYA: In the still unstable city of Ajdabiya, the ICRC and Libyan Red Crescent staff delivered enough lentils, oil, rice, salt, tea and sugar to 15,000 people to cover their needs for a month. They also distributed blankets, cooking sets and hygiene kits.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-03-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

JAPAN: The Red Cross is scaling up relief efforts to meet the huge needs. To date, the Japanese Red Cross has handed out more than 125,000 blankets and 20,700 emergency kits – including portable radios, flashlights and other supplies – to help evacuees cope with the cold weather and lack of electricity. Other badly needed items, such as diapers, baby food, undershirts and face masks, are being procured from within the country as well. In parallel with the distribution of relief goods, Red Cross planners are also consulting with the local authorities to map out other ways of making survivors’ lives more comfortable during their stay in evacuation centers.

BANGLADESH: Since the current crisis erupted in Libya, the ICRC has been helping thousands of Bangladeshi workers who have fled the country.

SOMALIA: With ICRC support, the Somali Red Crescent Society has opened two new health clinics in conflict and drought-affected regions to serve more than 100,000 people.

WORLDWIDE: The ICRC is helping Latin American prisons eradicate tuberculosis. Meanwhile other members of the global Red Cross and Red Crescent network areaddressing TB around the world in places like China, India, and Siberia.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2011-03-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

JAPAN: Medical teams are operating out of hospitals and mobile clinics treating survivors, while other Japanese Red Cross teams focus on search and rescue and caring for the very large number of people in evacuation centers. As the number of people missing following the earthquake continues to grow, more languages have been added to the family links website to assist people anxious for news about loved ones in the disaster area. For more info, read our FAQs regarding the earthquake in Japan.

IRAQ: The ICRC has announced plans to expand its micro-grant initiative to help disadvantaged Iraqis start their own businesses and begin earning much-needed income.

GAMBIA: The ICRC has assisted 677 returnees from Libya.

LIBYA: One month after armed violence broke out, the fighting continues and is now spreading to the country’s most populated areas. The ICRC has transferred its staff in Benghazi to the eastern city of Tobruk, where it will continue to assist victims of the conflict.

SYRIA: The ICRC and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent have begun to distributeclean drinking water to more than 21,000 vulnerable people in drought-stricken governorates.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

What Can I Do to Help?

2011-03-14T16:15:00.000-07:00

It's a common question when disaster strikes. Red Cross volunteers, donors, and employees are all part of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and as part of the largest humanitarian network in the world you are never too removed to help . While we can't literally offer a hand to the people in Japan, we can help nonetheless. Visit redcross.org to donate to Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami relief. Read about the American Red Cross' response to the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Oregon Red Cross Tsunami Preparedness Tips
Oregon Red Cross Earthquake Preparedness Tips
Oregon Dept. of Geology Tsunami Hazard Maps

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2011-03-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

MEXICO: The Mexican Red Cross, with ICRC support, opened a new mobile clinic providing medical care for migrants near the border with the United States.

LIBYA: In response to medical needs, Libyan Red Crescent staff and volunteers have been collecting blood, evacuating the wounded and working in the hospitals. The global Red Cross and Red Crescent network is working together to coordinate humanitarian response to the crisis.

Côte d'Ivoire: A month after inter-community clashes erupted, ICRC and Ivorian Red Cross volunteers are maintaining their assistance - providing emergency supplies, medical aid, and safe drinking water for thousands.

ARMENIA: Last month, theICRC and the Fuller Centre for Housing Armenia launched a joint program in Tavush province aimed at helping improve living conditions for the families of persons who went missing in connection with the Nagorny Karabakh conflict.

NEW ZEALAND: Among many ongoing earthquake relief efforts, sixty Red Cross welfare volunteers are working with the Christchurch City Council, going door to door in teams of two, to check in on affected people in the Eastern suburbs of Christchurch.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

March is Red Cross Month

2011-03-03T11:05:00.001-08:00

March Sign-ups

2011-03-02T12:36:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, March 8 - Nike Clash (tennis) @ Matt Arena, 3:15 - 8pm
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 2:45 or meet at the east side media entrance at 3p
Adults: Earlene, Nate (at 5:30pm)
Youth: Gabe, Elaina, Derek

Red Cross Youth Design Contest

2011-03-01T14:53:00.000-08:00

In celebration of Red Cross Month (which began today!), the National Youth Council (NYC) is inviting youth and young adults to design a creative medium to express what it means to join the Red Cross. Entries can be graphics or words, print or digital. One winner will be announced for each age group: Elementary/Middle School, High School, College, and Young Professional.

Visit the Red Cross Youth site for more details.

New FAST Brochure!

2011-02-15T13:52:00.000-08:00

Check out the new brochure for FAST! You can access it through this link and also by following the link on the right side of the page. Don't forget to share it with your friends!

Youth Photo Contest

2011-02-02T12:42:00.000-08:00

From the Cross Blog
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

Health \helth\ (noun) 1. A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. ~ World Health Organization

As part of National Public Health Week, Community Health Priorities, a project of the Northwest Health Foundation, is sponsoring the 2011 Oregon Youth Photo Contest!

Per the instructions: With this photo contest, we are looking at different ways to show health and healthy (or unhealthy) communities. The environment in which you live, work, and play affects your health. Using the lens of your camera, we want to see what you believe makes a healthy community!

[IMHO, giving blood and learning CPR are important parts of a creating a healthy community. Just sayin'.]

In order to qualify, you must live in Oregon and be age 12-18 as of March 1, 2011. Prizes range from $100-$300 and judging will be based on 5 categories:

* Presentation - Mechanics related to spelling, punctuation of title & caption

* Expression of “ health” theme - Presence and connection of health theme

* Artistry/Composition - Photograph’s visual quality

* Creativity/Originality - Originality of message of entire submission

* Overall Impact - Of the health message

Wanna know more? Read the rest of the contest rules.

Upcoming February Events

2011-01-29T19:30:00.001-08:00

The following is a list of upcoming February events. Carpools will only be provided for weekday events; there will not be carpools for weekend events. Please confirm meeting and/or carpool times below. All first aid stations will close 10 minutes after the event ends.

Sunday, February 13--Avenged Sevenfold Concert, 5:30-11pm

Meet at the east side media entrance at 5pm

Adults (2): Mike, Al

Youth (5): Katelyn, Bree, Ana, Curtis, Kyle, Derek

Sunday, February 13--Truffle Shuffle, 12-4pm
Meet at the Club Road entrance to Alton Baker Park at 11:45am

Adult: Nathan (11:30-2pm), Ken (2-4p)

Youth (2): Dennis, Derek, Alexis

Sunday, February 13--Jr. Gems Roller Derby, 4-6:30pm

Meet at the Willamalane Center for Sports & Rec at 3:45pm

Adult: Jeff B.

Youth: Brandon, Derek, Gabriel

Thursday, February 17--Elton John Concert
Carpool leaves at 6pm or meet at the east side media entrance at 6:30pm

Adults (2): Al

Youth (5): Emma, Jacob, Peter, Gabriel, Alexis, Derek

Saturday, February 19--UO Men’s Basketball Game

Meet at the east side media entrance at 11:30am

Adults (2): Nathan

Youth (5): Ana, Gina

Thursday, February 24--Cancelled due to weather

Saturday, February 26--UO Men’s Basketball Game
Meet at the east side media entrance at 1:30pm

Adults (2): Earlene

Youth (5): Ana, Jon, Zack

Saturday, February 26--Jr Gems Roller Derby
Meet at Willamalane Center for Sport & Rec at 3:45pm

Adult: Nathan

Youth: Brandon C., Megan

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2011-01-27T16:53:00.000-08:00

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up for January 26, 2010

Upcoming January Events

2011-01-19T11:13:00.000-08:00

Thursday, January 20, Disney Live @ Matt Arena

Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 1pm, or meet at the east-side media entrance of Matt Arena at 1:30pm. Shows begin at 3:30pm and 6:30pm

Shift 1: 1:45pm - 5:45pm

Youth: Derek, Curtis

Adults: Jeff B., Nate

Shift 2: 5:45pm - 9:45pm

Youth: Derek, Curtis

Adults: Nate

Saturday, January 22, Parade of Champions in Eugene
9am - 1pm (Meet in the 7-11 parking lot on the SW corner of 13th and Alder at 8:45am)
Youth: Zack, Kyle
Adult: Al, Nathan

Sunday, January 23, Jr. Gems Roller Derby @ Willamalane Center for Sports & Rec.

(formerly the Springfield Regional Sports Center --same venue, new name)

4pm - 6pm

Youth: Rio, Rachel, Derek

Adult: Jeff B.

Sunday, January 23, Women's BBall @ Matt Arena

Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 10am, or meet at the east-side media entrance of Matt Arena at 10:30am. Tip-off is at 12:30pm.

Youth: Dennis, Derek

Adults: Earlene

Thursday, January 27, Women's Bball @ Matt Arena

Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 4pm, or meet at the east-side media entrance of Matt Arena at 4:30pm. Tip-off is at 6pm.

Youth: Alexis, Derek

Adults: Earlene

Saturday, January 29, Women's Bball @ Matt Arena

Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 10:30am, or meet at the east-side media entrance of Matt Arena at 11am. Tip-off is at 12:30pm.

Youth (5): Brandon C.

Adults (2):

Tour of Matt Arena Reminder

2011-01-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder to FAST volunteers: We will be touring Matt Arena tomorrow, January 12, in order to gain knowledge of the new facility. This orientation of the new arena is necessary for volunteering at Duck basketball games and other events at Matthew Knight Arena. FAST volunteers can meet at the Charter building and use the carpool, which leaves at 4:30, or they may meet at the East Doors at 4:50. It may be advisable to use the carpool to this event because no one has yet visited the new arena.

Review of January Meeting

2011-01-07T11:39:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who ran for a position for this year. I look forward to working with the new officers and everyone else in the PR and Fundraising Committees. The first Executive Council meeting will be at the end of our February FAST meeting. The regular meeting will end at 7:30pm and the Council will meet from 7:30 to 8pm.

The New Officers Are:

President & Youth Representative to the Board of Directors: Brandon T.

Vice-President: Gabriel

Equipment Managers: Jacob & Emma

Public Relations Chair: Alex

Fundraising Chair: Jessica

PR and Fundraising Committees: Everyone!

Reminders

-You are still able to text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 to the American Red Cross disaster relief fund. The one-year anniversary of the earthquake in Haiti is on January 12; giving a small donation is a good way to commemorate that tragic event while helping the Red Cross prepare for future disasters.

-Gift cards are ordered and will be available for the February meeting

-Résumés are still needed! If you turned one in on Tuesday, I’ll send some revisions your way. If you haven’t sent me one, please work on it for February!

Red Cross/Red Crescent News

-Tess (UO journalism student who accompanied us to the final football game) completed her project. You can view a profile of FAST team (with slide show) here –it’s really cool!

-Visit the American Red Cross’ YouTube site for videos on the one-year anniversary of the Haiti earthquake. Short video | Longer video . We’ll have a longer discussion about Haiti during the Feb. meeting.

EVENTS!

-The first Jr. Gems roller derby bout of the season will be Sunday, January 23, from 4 to 6pm. Sign up now!

-FAST will provide first aid for all winter season events at Matt Arena! We have a great partnership with UO Athletics and we are fortunate for it to continue this winter!

Check the blog for upcoming events. If you have completed all your training (CPR/AED, First Aid, and Orientation), you are eligible to volunteer. Simply send me an email with the event you want to work and I’ll sign you up.

Tour of Matt Arena – PLEASE ATTEND!

We will tour Matt Arena on Wednesday, January 12 at 5pm. It is a brand-new venue and members who wish to volunteer at Matt Arena events will need an understanding of the facility. Please mark your calendars now!

January Events

2011-01-06T16:06:00.000-08:00

Posted are sign-ups for Thursday, January 13 through Sunday, January 23. Many details regarding Matt Arena are being finalized and I will post them as soon as possible.

Thursday, January 13, Men's Bball @ Matt Arena
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 4:30pm, or meet at the East Entrance of Matt Arena at 5pm (parking is scarce). Tip-off is 8pm.
Youth: Bree, Derek, Roari, Curtis, Jacob, Emma, Zack, Gabe
Adults (up to 4): Nathan, Jeff B., Shirley

Saturday, January 15, Men's BBall @ Matt Arena
No carpool for this event. All members will meet at the east-side media entrance of Matt Arena at 12:30pm (parking is scarce). Tip-off is 2pm.
Youth: Rio, Emma, Jacob, Bree, Brandon
Adults: Dana, Mike

Thursday, January 20, Disney Live @ Matt Arena
Times TBA. Shows begin at 3:30pm and 6:30pm
Shift 1

Youth (5): Bree, Derek,

Adults (2): Jeff B.

Shift 2:

Youth (5): Derek

Adults (2):

Sunday, January 23, Jr. Gems Roller Derby @ Willamalane Center for Sports & Rec.

(formerly the Springfield Regional Sports Center --same venue, new name)

4pm - 6pm

Youth: Rio, Rachel

Adult: Jeff B.

Sunday, January 23, Women's BBall @ Matt Arena

Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 10am, or meet at the east-side media entrance of Matt Arena at 10:30am. Tip-off is at 12:30pm.

Youth (5): Dennis, Bree?

Adults (2):

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2011-01-06T09:46:00.000-08:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

Côte d’Ivoire: In response to ongoing tension following the November presidential elections, the ICRC has stepped up its humanitarian activities for those arrested, injured and displaced, and for refugees in neighboring countries.

ZIMBABWE: For more than a year, the ICRC has been conducting an emergency assistance operation to improve the nutritional situation in Zimbabwe prisons. Therapeutic feeding programs for acutely malnourished prisoners and general food distributions have allowed malnutrition rates to drop sharply.

SUDAN: Almost 7,800 people affected by recent fighting and tensions around Shangyl Tobay, in North Darfur, have received emergency assistance from the ICRC over the last few days.

SOMALIA: Ongoing fighting exacerbated by drought is forcing millions of Somalis to continue to depend on humanitarian assistance. The ICRC and the Somali Red Crescent Society have just finished providing food and urgently needed household items for over 540,000 displaced people and vulnerable residents in major cities and along the road heading south-west from Mogadishu to Afgoye.

HAITI: Nearly a year since the earthquake, Red Crossers are still hard at work on projects like cholera prevention, hygiene, immunizations, supplying water, prosthetic limb fitting, digging drainage ditches to mitigate flooding, and building semi-permanent shelters. Keep an eye out for more Haiti updates in next week's Wrap-up.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2011-01-03T10:34:00.000-08:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter
From December 29, 2010

Côte d’Ivoire: The situation in Côte d'Ivoire following the recent presidential elections is becoming increasingly tense. Red Cross workers have been helping the wounded, visiting prisoners and restoring contact between family members.

SUDAN: Darfur, an area of Sudan that has been affected by armed conflict since 2004, is almost as big as Spain. It has only one rehabilitation center where people in need of a mobility device can get assistance - supported by the ICRC.

YEMEN and GUANTANAMO BAY: For the first time, families in Yemen and their relatives detained at the US facility in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, have been able to communicate via video-teleconference, using a new service made available by the ICRC.

ARMENIA and AZERBAIJAN: Three times over the past year, the ICRC has been instrumental in the handing over of ex internees and mortal remains between Armenia, Nagorny Karabakh and Azerbaijan.

NIGER: To help ease the consequences of the serious crisis in food production and livestock raising, nearly a million head of cattle will be vaccinated as part of a vast campaign conducted by the country's ministry of animal resources with support from the ICRC.

PAKISTAN: Volunteers from the Pakistan Red Crescent Society, IFRC and their partners are handing out thousands of winterized shelter kits to help families affected by the recent floods survive the harsh winter.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Winter Cheer

2010-12-21T11:06:00.000-08:00

The First Aid Service Team and Oregon Pacific Chapter wish you and your family the very best this holiday season. Have a safe and happy New Year!

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2010-12-15T17:00:00.000-08:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

ISREAL: Emergency medical personnel were there to support the response operation and to treat the medical problems of the fire fighters, police officers, soldiers and volunteers during last week's major wildfire.

NIGERIA: The ICRC and the Nigerian Red Cross Society are providing protection and assistance for people affected by the violent clashes between Nigerian security forces and the John Togo group in Warri, Delta state, and neighboring communities.

HAITI: Despite widespread civil unrest and political protests in Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince last week, Red Cross ambulances were busy transporting patients to hospitals and cholera treatment centers around the country.

SUDAN: The ICRC working in cooperation with the Ministry of Animal Resources and Fisheries, has launched the latest phase of a campaign to vaccinate 700,000 animals against five major endemic diseases in Darfur.

PAKISTAN: The IFRC has launched a pilot project that will see 3,100 seed packages handed out to families in the Larkana and Hyderabad regions of Sindh to help them replant crops that were lost in the recent floods.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Season's Greeting from OPC!

2010-12-15T16:56:00.001-08:00

December 2010 Minutes

2010-12-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

Hi FAST,

Thanks to everyone who showed up at the December meeting. We had 25 people…maybe a new record! For those of you who were absent, here is what we covered:

• Nominations for officers for 2011 are now open. You can nominate yourself or another member for one or more of the six positions: President, Vice-President, Equipment Managers (two of them), Public Relations chairperson, Fundraising Chairperson. I mentioned at the meeting that officers for 2011 will take a more active role in facilitating meetings, scheduling events, and guiding the direction of the program. This link will take you to a page where you can view the description and requirements for each position. Nominations are open until Friday, December 30; send your nominations to me via email. We will hold the election during the January meeting on Tuesday, January 4. Each nominee has the opportunity to take a few minutes for a campaign speech, if they wish.

• We had a very successful football season and I would like to thank everyone who contributed their time to a first aid station! Overall, we responded to 55 incidents, provided assistance and supplies to 208 people, and provided care to 12 people who required transport to the hospital. The final football game went smoothly and everyone showed vast improvement in their treatment, radio use, and in filling out paperwork. I’m already excited for next season!

• The Winter Solstice run is happening on Sunday, December 19 at 4pm. You can run, walk, or jog in this team-building event. Details and registration information are here.

• Please check the blog for information about supporting the Red Cross with a single click on Facebook, text donations to the Red Cross, assembling a disaster kit and being prepared for winter storms, and information on Red Cross/Red Crescent activities around the world with the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up.

• The Public Relations Committee met and gathered the following ideas: take more “action” pictures during events for the blog and Facebook; buy a Facebook ad; get commercial airtime to promote FAST; spread the word about what we do at football games; make and sell FAST wristbands. When the committee meets with its new chairperson in January it will work on these projects.

• The Fundraising Committee met and gathered the following ideas: contact Dutch Bros., Dickie Jo’s, Papa’s Pizza, Safeway, and Voodoo Doughnuts about fundraisers; hold a bake sale; create Red Cross crafts. When the committee meets with its new chairperson in January it will work on these projects.

• I have not yet received the gift cards from Best Buy. I hope to have them by the January meeting. I appreciate your patience while I wait for Best Buy to return my calls about them possibly providing a portion of the gift card amount as a donation.

• We will hold a golf cart training next year for members who wish to operate the cart. Requirements include being 17 years old at the time of the event, having a valid driver’s license, and having volunteered a pre-determined number of hours. More details to come.

• Recommendations for next football season include obtaining food vouchers for FAST, rotating station assignments more frequently, double-checking kit supplies before each game, and getting a new horn and lights (and maybe a tip jar) for the cart.

Hope to see you all at the Winter Solstice Run!!

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2010-12-09T13:40:00.000-08:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

COLOMBIA: Floods have affected more than 1.5 million people. TheColombian Red Cross has given food, emergency shelter, water, and other aid to hundreds of thousands and plans to intensify its operation in the affected regions.

IRAQ/KUWAIT: In its capacity as a neutral and impartial intermediary, the ICRC continues to support the authorities in their efforts to find out what happened to over a thousand people still missing in connection with the 1990-1991 war.

NEPAL: In connection with efforts to resolve cases of missing persons in Nepal, the ICRC and the Ministry of Peace and Reconstruction, with technical support from an Argentine forensics anthropology team, jointly organized a four-day workshop on forensics.

GUINEA-BISSAU: Some 30 volunteers of the Red Cross Society of Guinea-Bissau from various parts of the country, together with nurses working in emergency services in the capital's hospitals, are taking part in an advanced workshop on first aid.

INDIA: The ICRC, with support from the District Disability Rehabilitation Centre (an organization run by the Indian Red Cross society of Dimapur) has re-launched a physical rehabilitation center in Dimapur, Nagaland.

EUROPE: Red Cross teams are responding to extreme weather across Europe.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Facebook+Clorox=$ for the Red Cross

2010-12-08T13:15:00.000-08:00

By Allison Klapper
American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter

What's the coolest thing that Clorox has done since color-safe bleach?

I may be biased, but I'd say it's their support of the Red Cross. For more than 20 years, Clorox has supported the Red Cross's disaster efforts financially and through product donations.

Now, Clorox is helping us raise money through Facebook, but we need your help! You can visit the Clorox Facebook Page and click on the yellow "start helping" icon. Clorox has pledged $1 for every click.

Next time you log in to Facebook, find the page of the company that has kept your whites so white all these years and take a moment to click the link.

Thank you all for your support!

do u want 2 help?

2010-12-06T15:39:00.000-08:00

Follow the link to read about the American Red Cross text donations. It's a great way to give during the holidays!

American Red Cross Text Donations

Winter Storms

2010-12-02T13:35:00.000-08:00

Last week's bout of winter snow and ice served as a good reminder to prepare yourselves and your family for possible winter storms. La Niña weather patterns have experts calling for cooler temperatures and higher precipitation levels in the Pacific Northwest (read: more snow and ice). Keep these key points in mind to be safe:

Keep your home disaster kit stocked in case bad winter weather strikes. Visit Build a Kit for more information. Remember to include pet supplies in your disaster kit!
Dress in several layers of lightweight clothing and wear mittens/gloves and a hat that covers your ears.
Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and for traction in snow and ice.
Minimize travel and keep a small disaster supplies kit in your car. At minimum keep spare blankets, flashlights and fresh batteries, tire chains, and signaling equipment (light sticks, flares, or reflective triangles) in your car. Handwarmers, bottled water, and granola bars are a good addition as well.
Replace smoke alarm batteries if you didn't do so during the time change.
Visit the Winter Storm Safety Checklist for more information.

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2010-12-02T10:08:00.000-08:00

By Robin Parker

American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

SWITZERLAND: The ICRC is set to play host, for the first time ever, to a conference on international standards for law enforcement.

SUDAN: As the referendum in South Sudan approaches, the ICRC is stepping up preparations for possible humanitarian emergencies.

CAMBODIA: Hundreds of people lost their lives in a stampede at last week's Water Festival. The Cambodia Red Cross has been assisting with medical aid, psychosocial support and helping people search for missing loved ones.

REPUBLIC OF CONGO: A campaign to vaccinate 3.6 million people against poliogot underway last week and has so far reached over 2 million people.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

A Premier Organization

2010-12-01T16:59:00.000-08:00

I just got a text message from a graduate student friend at the University of Oregon. She was sitting in The Buzz, a coffee shop inside UO's student center, when she overheard part of a conversation. Her text read:

[At] The Buzz I overheard: "What do you think are some of the best volunteer organizations?" [Answer:] "The Red Cross."

Oregon Pacific Chapter volunteers (that includes you, FAST members) do a lot in our community. We respond to nearly 4 disasters per week. We train more than 700 youth per year in safety and preparedness classes. We teach CPR and First Aid to over 16,000 people every year. And just since July, FAST has provided medical care to more than 400 people at community events.

People recognize the efforts of Red Cross volunteers in the Eugene-Springfield community, and FAST volunteers' service with the Red Cross helps preserve the Red Cross' reputation as a leading volunteer organization. As we wrap up another season of first aid at the Ducks football games, I'd like to recognize all the FAST members for their hard work over the past two months and dedication to the program. Thanks!

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2010-11-24T16:04:00.000-08:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

TOGO: After heavy flooding, it's essential to reduce the risk of disease from contaminated water. That's why around 100 Togolese Red Cross volunteers specially trained in community health work are going door-to-door in the areas worst affected by Togo's recent floods to explain the importance of washing hands and of treating water before drinking it.

SERBIA: The Red Cross of Serbia continues to provide support to people affected by this month’s earthquake, which hit the city of Kraljevo. In addition to distributing food and other items, a psychosocial support program has now begun, helping people to deal with the shock of the disaster and the impact on their lives.

WORLDWIDE: The ICRC has announced the winners of the "Young Reporter" competition, who will travel to a country that has been affected by armed conflict – Georgia, Lebanon, Liberia, the Philippines or Senegal – and will be given the opportunity to cover a local ICRC humanitarian project.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

November Sign-Ups

2010-11-24T12:16:00.000-08:00

--Sat, Nov 6, Ducks Game #5 vs. UW @ Autzen Stadium
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 9:30am or meet at South Gate at 10:00am
Youth: Kyle, Alex, Zack, Bree, Roari, Rio, Brandon, Jacob, Emma, Gabriel (11a), Peter, Rachel, Derek, Andrew, Alexis
Adults: Nathan, Earlene, Jill, Jeff D., Lourie, Shirley, Cecil, Heather, Jeff B.

--Thu, Nov 25, Whiteaker Community Dinner @ Whiteaker Head Start, 9a-4p
Three shifts for this event. Please considering giving just a few hours of your holiday to help at the first aid station at this community event that provides a holiday meal for underprivileged members of our community.
Shift 1 (9a-12p)
Youth: Derek, Bree, Brandon
Adult: Jeff B.

Shift 2 (12p-2p)
Youth: Derek, Ryan
Adult: Jill

--Fri, Nov 26, Ducks Game #6 vs. Arizona @ Autzen Stadium
Carpool leaves the Red Cross at 1pm or meet at South Gate at 1:30pm
Youth: Bree, Rio, Jacob, Gabriel, Emma, Roari, Peter, Rachel, Jessica, Alexis, Jaime, Brandon, Sean
Adults: Nathan, Jill, Mike, Al, Shirley, Earlene, Ken, Jeff B., Aimee?

Inclement Weather

2010-11-22T17:15:00.000-08:00

With arctic cold fronts moving in and threats of snow in the forecast, the Eugene area may experience its first bout of winter weather this season. The local school districts will make a decision early in the morning regarding school delays and closures. If the Eugene area school districts (Eugene 4J, Bethel, Springfield) close for the day then the Oregon Pacific Chapter will be closed except for essential Emergency Services personnel. Youth Services (YS) and FAST will be closed for the day and any YS or FAST events will be cancelled.

Please refer to Eugene 4J's, Bethel's, and Springfield's school closing information to learn more about their policies.

In the meantime, be sure you are prepared for and know how to respond to a winter storm with Winter Storms Disaster Tips

Disaster Optical Illusion

2010-11-19T09:30:00.000-08:00

By the National Youth Council

Red Cross Youth!

When you get a chance, make sure you check out this Red Cross Optical Illusion advertising campaign that is happening in San Francisco. You can read the entire article by clicking the link above, but the pictures can be found below. We hope you have a wonderful, fantastic, and incredible weekend!

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2010-11-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

Hey FAST,
We talked about the cholera outbreak in Haiti at our last meeting. Be sure to check out this week's Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up for the latest news on how the Haitian Red Cross is responding to the outbreak.

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

By Robin Parker

American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

The January earthquake not only left thousands of newly disabled Haitians without legs and arms, it also completely destroyed one of the most important rehabilitation clinics in Haiti designed to provide long-term specialized care. The American Red Cross and ICRC are now helping to fund the reconstruction of this rehab clinic and its workshop and training facilities.

INDIA: Indian journalists have been taking part in a competition organized by the ICRC and the Press Institute of India, encouraging people in the media to understand humanitarian values and promoting high-quality reporting on the topic.

PHILIPPINES and INDONESIA: University students took part in international humanitarian law moot court competitions organized, in part, by the ICRC.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Bloodborne Pathogens Certification

2010-11-15T12:17:00.000-08:00

The American Red Cross now offers its Universal Precautions for Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) training online. BBP is a required class for FAST members. You all received some BBP training during your Professional Rescuer classes and many of you took the class in the past. All FAST members must certify or re-certify in BBP before Friday, November 19 to volunteer at any future events. Please be aware this is before the final football game of the season. The class is free, quick, painless, and easy for FAST members! Take the following steps to enroll:

Visit the Red Cross course site
Enter your ZIP code
Select course category ‘Bloodborne Pathogen’ and course format ‘online only’
Choose any range of dates from the current date to Nov 19 (since the course is online, you take it at your convenience)
You will be directed to the SABA LMS page. Scroll down to the bottom of the imbedded window and select either of the bottom two options. Don’t enroll in the BBP for Tattoo Artists!
Click Register
You’ll be directed to the SABA LMS login page. If you have a SABA LMS ID (you should if you recently took a Red Cross class), enter it here. If you have NOT taken a class since July 1, please contact me for a user ID and login.
Complete the checkout process. Enter the coupon code I provided in the October 15 FAST email. The code begins 370******-***. Apply the coupon to receive the training for free.
Complete the training at your convenience before November 19. Shoot me an email once you’re done!

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2010-11-12T10:40:00.000-08:00

By Robin Parker

American Red Cross - Oregon Trail Chapter

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC:The ICRC has begun distributing food to 55,000 residents, internally displaced persons and refugees. It's the biggest relief operation the ICRC has ever carried out in the country.

AZERBAIJAN: Earlier this week, acting as a neutral intermediary, the ICRC repatriated an Azerbaijani citizen, formerly interned in Armenia, and the body of an Armenian citizen who had died in Baku in October.

PAKISTAN: Stagnant pools of flood water create a high risk of mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever. The ICRC is distributing 200,000 mosquito nets to help prevent the spread of disease.

INDIA: This week, India launched a series of mass measles vaccination campaigns, supported by technical assistance from the American Red Cross and its Measles Initiative partners. In 2008, three out of four children who died from measles were in India. By the end of 2012, the country hopes to have protected 134 million children against this deadly and highly contagious disease. To support the worldwide efforts of the Measles Initiative, visit our holiday gift catalog and make a donation that will save another mother’s child.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Don't Listen to Dwight

2010-11-09T16:17:00.000-08:00

By Robin Parker
American Red Cross | Oregon Trail Chapter

Another great post from the hilarious bloggers at the Oregon Trail Chapter (OTC). Check out OTC's Cross Blog for more posts.

I call it the "sleeve sneeze." They call it the "vampire cough." Either way, it's a smart thing to do.

You know what's not a smart thing to do? Generally, anything that Dwight says. Check out this Flu Safety clip from NBC's The Office...

Be "Super" Safe at the Office

2010-11-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker

American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter

Office safety should be taken seriously. This Superman/office safety mashup video... should not.

"Filing cabinets. Harmless looking things, aren't they?" Hahaha...

P.S. Do you really want to maker your office safer? Buy or build your own office disaster kit.

P.P.S. Remember to use code HOLIDAY10 for 20% off if you're shopping our online store this holiday season!

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-up

2010-11-03T17:05:00.000-07:00

By Robin Parker

American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter

HAITI: As Hurricane Tomas heads toward Haiti, the Red Cross is helping people get ready for the storm and also preparing to respond afterward.

PAKISTAN: Three months since the floods, high waters in the southern province of Sindh still prevent more than 1 million people from returning home. Red Cross and Red Crescent workers from around the world (and right next door) continue to provide aid.

INDONESIA: Red Cross workers are still busy providing food, shelter and water for thousands of evacuees after the double disasters of a tsunami and a volcanic eruption.

SERBIA: Volunteers sprung into action after a 5.3 magnitude earthquake that damaged electricity and water supplies in the city of Kraljevo.

ITALY: Red Crossers are assisting thousands of evacuees who were forced out of their homes when torrential rains caused floods throughout the entire northeast of the country.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

NYC: National Youth Involvement Month

2010-11-02T11:31:00.000-07:00

From the National Youth Council (NYC)

Greetings Red Crossers!

I hope this blog post finds you extremely excited for November–which is National Youth Involvement Month!

Each and every day, Red Cross Youth around the country make a difference in their communities. They manage blood drives, teach babysitting courses, and educate other youth about the importance of leadership, diversity, and team-building. They do all of these things while still maintaining other obligations outside of their duties as American Red Cross volunteers.

In short, you all, the American Red Cross Youth, are spectacular! November is the month for you to show the entire world what you’re doing.

This year’s theme for National Youth Involvement Month is “Get out and Volunteer!”. The overall theme is broken down into four sub-themes–one for each week of November.

Week 1: Get Active/Find a Volunteer Project
Week 2: Spread The Word/ Track Your Volunteer Experience
Week 3: Stay Active/ Finish a Project
Week 4: Recap your Experience and Move Forward

Also, be on the lookout for the American Red Cross Youth Facebook group page launching on November 1, 2010! Be sure to “Spread the Word” by posting your experiences to the group’s page. More information will follow on this page.

So get active, spread the word, finish a project, and keep moving forward. The American Red Cross is counting on you. To get started, register your American Red Cross club on our website by clicking to link to your left.

You can find more information relating to National Youth Involvement Month by clicking the tab labeled “Involvement Month 2010″ at the top of this page in the coming week of Nov. 1st!