County looking for volunteers to help after disasters

Though there aren't any hurricanes looming off the coast at the moment, Sarasota County Health and Human Services is recruiting volunteers now, so they can help when they're most needed. 

Recruits would be trained to run Volunteer Reception Centers — community locations where people who step forward to help during a time of disaster get their volunteer assignments. This training is part of a larger effort by the county to strengthen the volunteer base for hurricane system, which will continue through November.

Officials say the VRCs help ensure volunteers work in meaningful and constructive roles after disasters.

"We look forward to strengthening our community's capabilities in placing volunteers during a time of disaster," said VCR Volunteer Coordinator Bridget Sims in a release. "This workshop provides disaster volunteers an opportunity to practice the process while training new volunteers who will serve in the Volunteer Reception Center."

There will be a VRC Recruitment and Training Workshop on Tuesday, July 26 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Rd. There, participants will gain experience to set up and run an Volunteer Reception Center.

Reserve your place at the workshop here, or call Bridget Sims at (941) 861-2562 for more information.

Those who are unable to attend the training session can register to become a HS-Disaster Recovery Team member here.