By Alana Mauger

Following disasters like home fires, flood or hurricanes, American Red Cross disaster workers mobilize to provide shelter, meals and supplies for impacted communities. Since 1992, within that response, a specialized group of volunteers – the disaster mental health team – provides emotional support on what is often someone’s worst day.

“We’re there to listen, to help people process what they’re going through on a more human level,” shared Kevin Masturzo, Red Cross disaster mental health volunteer, licensed clinical social worker and father of three. “Sometimes, we’re there to be an ear for people who just need to tell you their story.”

Red Cross disaster mental health volunteers are certified or licensed mental health professionals in their fields. As a licensed clinical social worker, Kevin brings a wide range of experience to the role, including outpatient therapy, private case management, adoption and cyber school counseling, which he says helps him work with a diverse base of clients.

Having taught Red Cross CPR and first aid classes years ago, Kevin rejoined the Red Cross disaster action and mental teams just before the pandemic shut down most in-person interaction. That meant a lot of time spent on calls, texts, Facetime and Zoom with clients.

“We check in, make sure they’re doing well, offer tools to help them deal with tragedy. Most importantly, we let them know we’re here to support them,” he said.

The same holds true for larger, in-person disaster responses, like the flooding and tornados in Lower Bucks County in July and the ongoing region-wide response to Hurricane Ida. During these, Kevin had the opportunity to work with clients at Red Cross evacuation centers and shelters.

“Our role is to go around, say hi, let them know they’re supported, that we’re here to listen,” he said. “We also help hand out blankets, food and water, try to put a smile on their faces.”

Kevin also volunteered with the Red Cross at FEMA’s reception center for Afghan refugees at the Philadelphia airport in August, handing out personal care and comfort items and offering a friendly smile.

“Working with the refugees was quite an experience,” he shared. “Giving kids stuffed animals and seeing their faces light up makes it all worth it.”

One of things Kevin values most about his Red Cross experience is the comradery he shares with his fellow volunteers.

“It’s a wonderful team to work with, and it’s so rewarding to see how the team works together and how the volunteers give of their time,” he said, adding that their role is to support clients as well as volunteers during these emotional disaster recovery efforts.

Last year, close to 550 Red Cross disaster mental health volunteers made over 23,500 contacts following disasters across the country. To learn more about this important work or to get involved, visit the Disaster Mental Health page on our website.