ATA and American Red Cross Recruit Volunteer Interpreters

The American Translators Association and the American Red Cross (ARC) have an ongoing partnership to develop a nationwide volunteer network of professional interpreters. ATA's Interpreters Division took the lead in recruiting volunteers and coordinating the initial pilot program.

This collaboration with ATA is part of ARC's plan to increase language capacity across the organization and become better able to serve all communities, especially during hurricane season. Under the agreement, ATA recruits volunteers from its membership to serve as interpreters during disaster relief operations, and ARC's National Headquarters connects each volunteer to their local Red Cross chapter.

ATA participating volunteers have the opportunity to serve in a variety of positions, depending on their interests and qualifications, and to receive training in disaster services/community relations. Some will serve regionally as members of language banks or Disaster Action Teams, responding to local emergencies such as house fires -- by far the number one disaster in America. Others will join the Red Cross as members of the Disaster Services Human Resources system, deploying to respond when major disasters, such as hurricanes, occur.

The ATA-ARC partnership is a special opportunity for ATA interpreters and translators to use their professional skills for the greater good. We encourage each of you to volunteer now to get involved and learn how you can make a difference.

-- Sign up for Volunteer Your Interpreting Services to the American Red Cross