Hope Force International Offers Disaster Relief Training in the Wake of Hurricane Sandy

• 

Hope Force volunteer Connie Hasty, on right, comforts a homeowner who discovered a drawer full of precious photos that were destroyed by Hurricane Sandy floodwaters.

“People are seldom prepared to adequately help others in the aftermath of a disaster -- yet there is often a strong desire to respond,” said HFI Founder Jack Minton. “Hope Force specializes in equipping individuals to become appropriate responders."

Oakton, VA (PRWEB) March 15, 2013

With natural disasters on the increase and tornado season only weeks away in the USA, Hope Force International (HFI) is gearing up to offer Disaster Relief Training in Oakton, VA (near Fairfax) April 11-13, 2013.

When Hurricane Sandy hit America’s East Coast in October, many people wanted to help, but didn’t know how. HFI responded by sending in a team of trained responders who were able to assess the situation and offer appropriate relief and aid in partnership with other organizations. HFI is still working in Atlantic City, New Jersey, where they have had teams helping victims of Hurricane Sandy since just days after the storm surge flooded and destroyed homes up and down the east coast.

“People are seldom prepared to adequately help others in the aftermath of a disaster -- yet there is often a strong desire to respond,” said HFI Founder Jack Minton. “Hope Force specializes in equipping individuals to become appropriate responders." HFI trains volunteers in advance so they are prepared and allowed to respond, often in restricted areas, when disaster strikes.

The nature of disaster response can be grueling, with responders often facing long hours each day while serving individuals who have experienced tremendous loss and suffering. If you desire to respond in times of crisis, it is essential to be personally prepared at every level.

HFI can help you prepare for that crisis. Upon successful completion of the training, you will be certified as a Hope Force Reservist, eligible for US domestic rapid deployment with HFI from the immediate aftermath to weeks and months after the initial event.

Preparation for involvement as a Hope Force Reservist includes:

•     An overview of the grief and trauma cycle
•     How to be an appropriate caregiver
•     Self-care for the crisis responder
•     Identity in Christ – foundational for the Christian caregiver
•     Maintaining healthy, cohesive relationships in crisis scenarios
•     Core principles for effective ministry

Registration for the Oakton event is $195 and includes all training materials, lunch each day and dinner Friday evening. Registration closes three days prior to start, and can be completed online at http://www.hopeforce.org. Program begins Thursday, April 11, at 6:30 pm and ends Saturday, April 13, at 5:00 pm.

For further information: info(at)hopeforce(dot)org or (615) 371-1271. Hope Force is a national partner with the Salvation Army.

PDF Print