Amazing Mother-Daughter Duo

Working with family can be challenging, but for Tiffany and Livia, it’s a way to stay connected while sharing rewarding moments. Out of the Capital Area Chapter, this mother-daughter duo are Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers. By serving together they are an inspirational team and the work they do is changing lives.

“You become a different person after going on these calls. You really realize what’s important in life. I would encourage everyone to join the Red Cross,” says Livia.

DAT volunteers respond to families after a home fire or other disaster. Often the first on scene, along with emergency responders, they provide financial assistance to help with immediate needs such as food, clothing and a safe place to stay. They also to offer comfort and connect people to health or mental health support such as emergency medication, medical device replacement, or counseling.

Livia is a full-time pre-med student, with a part time job and a Red Cross volunteer. She chose to be a DAT responder because it’s the best way to be hands-on when helping others. To Livia, the Red Cross stood out because it makes an impact all around the world. The volunteers she works alongside teach her bravery and compassion.

Inspired by her daughter Livia, Tiffany joined the Red Cross in Arkansas, before moving to Florida and joining Livia’s team. Responding to calls motivates her to canvas new communities that are at risk for fires and help prevent future disasters. During this process she educates clients on fire prevention and to be aware of potential risks. Tiffany is proud to be help provide relief to families during the worst days of their lives.

“When you are there, it is very gratifying. You feel proud for actively helping others. When everything is gone, we are the people on their team,” says Tiffany.

When volunteering together their familiarity provides a better service to the client. Volunteering together provides them opportunities to bond and spend time with each other. They also enjoy serving others through events such as blood drives and other disaster aid. They want to continue to encourage others around them to volunteer as a family.

DAT responders must complete only 10 hours of training before shadowing a current DAT member to get comfortable on the ground. After completing that process, a volunteer can start helping families recover.

“I am thankful that both my mother and I can have a positive impact on our community,” says Livia.

Learn more about volunteering at redcross.org.

Written by Isabell Aponte & Coral Hornstein.