Montana Volunteers Train to Run Disaster Shelters

When disaster forces families from their homes, trained volunteers can mean the difference between chaos and comfort.

The American Red Cross hosted disaster shelter training in Kalispell, Montana, teaching Flathead Valley residents how to operate emergency shelters during wildfires, floods, and other crises. Community members learned everything from logistics planning to transportation coordination.

Margery Fox, a Somers resident, joined the training to bring her event planning skills to her community. She's volunteered across multiple countries but wants to be ready when her own neighbors need help.

"The thing that has impressed me the most is that Montanans always help each other when the chips are down," Fox said.

American Red Cross instructor Bev Blokzyl explained that shelters need volunteers with all kinds of skills. Some handle information and planning, others arrange transportation, and some even drive forklifts at Red Cross warehouses.

The training prepares volunteers to help both locally and beyond Montana's borders. Some volunteers choose to deploy to other states when disasters strike far from home.

The Ripple Effect

Fox's message to her community captures why this training matters beyond individual preparedness. "At some point in our life we are all going to need help, and even though we're resilient and strong and independent folks, we can give, and we can receive, and everybody has a skill set that can contribute," she said.

The Red Cross partners with local organizations to set up overnight shelters quickly when emergencies happen. These trained volunteers ensure families have a safe place to sleep, food to eat, and support during their most vulnerable moments.

One trained volunteer today becomes a lifeline for dozens of families tomorrow.