This opportunity gave me a better understanding of what working at a disaster shelter is all about. I thought I knew, but I didn't. It was an education. After it, I have even more of a deep-down respect and admiration for what volunteers do to help people. There are challenges you can't imagine. It was surprising to me the tremendous dedication the American Red Cross has in giving to individuals who are displaced. Volunteers commit to 12-hour days. They may not get a day off for two weeks. They share room. It is NOT a vacation. They love it and will do it again and again. They are amazing. My best memory was the fact that we were able as a team to help people and make a difference for individuals.
I was so proud of our team. Everybody who was there came together to do jobs we had never done before. I worked the men's dormitory at the shelter. Towards the end of a shelter tenure, you have the most disadvantaged people in shelters. People without a lot of options. Some were homeless. With the shelter providing three free meals and a place to sleep, they are not in a hurry to move out. I got to meet people I never would have met, like two guys who had been living under bridges on the Southwest Freeway in Houston. These guys have had a tough go. When I left, they shook hands and wished me well. They don't show a lot of emotion, so it was unexpected. I told them I'd remember them and my experience, and I will. I would encourage anyone to be a part of disaster relief.