Charlene Chapuis pours her heart into the New Orleans community as a disaster responder and gives her time to a variety of Red Cross volunteer groups, including the Disaster Action Team.
October 22, 2024
By: Andy Martinez, volunteer writer
In the bustling heart of New Orleans, where warmth meets resilience, Charlene Chapuis stands as a beacon of hope for those facing their darkest hours. As a dedicated Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteer with the American Red Cross, Charlene's journey is not only a story of service but a testament to the transformative power of compassion and community support.
Charlene's path with the DAT began in 2017, driven by a deep desire to give back to her community.
"I had a desire to help my community and provide immediate assistance to families during emergencies or disasters," said Charlene. Her journey into volunteerism was also fueled by personal experiences, having been a caregiver for her sister battling Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC).
Among Charlene's most memorable moments on DAT calls is an apartment fire incident where multiple families were displaced.
"What makes this fire stand out the most was not only the compassion from the Red Cross but also the neighbor and the firefighters," Charlene recalls. It's these moments of collective support that showcase the resilience of communities in times of crisis.
When asked about her inspiration to continue volunteering, especially during challenging times, Charlene's dedication shines through.
"I'm inspired by being able to help others in a time of need," she said. It's the positive outcomes and the ability to provide immediate assistance that fuels her passion for volunteering.
Charlene's impact goes beyond immediate help. In a life-changing experience, her and the DAT’s support led to a family finding shelter and resources after being displaced by a fire.
"I find it rewarding to give families a sense of hope," she emphasized, highlighting the transformative effect of support during dark moments.
Charlene Chapuis was recognized for her impact and volunteerism at the Southeast Louisiana Chapter holiday party.
Witnessing the aftermath of disasters can take an emotional toll, but Charlene's resilience lies in regrouping and finding comfort in family and faith.
"Faith keeps me going in the face of adversity," said Charlene, emphasizing the importance of staying positive and focusing on what can be changed.
The American Red Cross' mission is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. For Charlene, the Red Cross's mission to alleviate human suffering resonated deeply.
"Being on the DAT team allows you to express compassion at a person's most vulnerable time," she explained. “To offer them a sense of hope.”
-Charlene Chapuis
For those thinking about volunteering with DAT or the Red Cross, Charlene offers words of encouragement.
"It is very rewarding to help people in a time of need," she advises, highlighting the training opportunities, flexibility, and sense of camaraderie within the organization.
“First, I rode with another volunteer so I could understand the mission and also what impact the mission had on the displaced people,” said Charlene. “This allowed me to see and understand what the donations were being used for. The DAT team allows you to work with your local families in an emergency. They are typically among the first responders, allowing families to quickly begin the recovery process.”
Looking ahead, Charlene's hopes for the DAT program revolve around expanding volunteer teams to reach more communities.
"My mission is to continue delivering compassionate quality care to the community," she affirmed, embodying the spirit of service that defines the DAT program.
In Charlene Chapuis we find not only a volunteer, but also a role model full of compassion and resilience. Her journey with the DAT is a testament to the lasting impact of community support and the transformative power of helping others in their darkest hours. Join us in celebrating Charlene's commitment and consider taking the first step to make a difference in your community by volunteering with the American Red Cross.
Most of the 65,000 emergencies that the Red Cross responds to each year are local, personal disasters like home fires. They may not make the news, but we know they are just as devastating to the families affected. Trained and available, Disaster Action Team volunteers are ready to respond to these emergencies, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Learn more about how you can join Charlene and make a difference in your community as a DAT volunteer.
Visit redcross.org/Louisiana to apply today!
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