Emergency Volunteer Opportunity - Blizzard Shelter Activation
DE BEST has been activated by DSAMH to support a shelter opening at Dover High School due to severe winter weather conditions resulting in significant power outages across the region.
This deployment provides a calm, supportive, and confidential presence where residents and responders may voluntarily access Psychological First Aid (PFA) and mental wellness resources.
Immediate staffing support is needed.
Transportation assistance: Transportation via the Delaware National Guard may be available if travel conditions are unsafe. Contact Celeste Peart at 302-383-3130 immediately if transport support is needed.
DE BEST Contact: Celeste Peart - 302-383-3130
On-Site Contact: Jean Walls - 302.382.9047
Your Role as a Volunteer
- Provide a calm, steady presence within the shelter environment
- Offer basic Psychological First Aid (PFA) using Prepare, Look, Listen, Link, Refer, and Disengage
- Conduct informal check-ins with residents and responders
- Distribute Hope Line and other mental wellness resources
- Coordinate respectfully with DSAMH staff and shelter leadership
Prepare for Your Shift
Winter travel conditions are expected. Please only sign up if you can travel safely. If transportation is needed, contact Celeste to coordinate possible National Guard transport.
- Dress for extreme cold - layers, waterproof footwear, hat, gloves
- Bring your DE BEST vest and ID badge
- Bring a fully charged phone and portable charger
- Bring water and snacks
- Carry Hope Line cards and additional support resources if available
Volunteer Requirements
- Confirmed as deployment-eligible by DE BEST staff
- Completed PFA training
- Completed Code of Conduct and onboarding documentation via SERVDE.org
After You Sign Up
- A shift reminder will be sent prior to your start time
- Clock in/out using: the Causer app or web portal link provided in your confirmation email
- After your shift, please report:
- Approximate number of individuals engaged
- Number of resources distributed
- Any notable unmet needs or responder concerns
Need Assistance?
Email DEBESTvolunteers@gmail.com with questions or special considerations.
