This week, people in Greater Cincinnati have been attending class to learn how to be a "hero" during natural disasters and crises.
With Hurricane Harvey serving as a strong motivator for people who want to learn the skills necessary to be part of a rescue mission through the Red Cross.
The "Zero to Hero" program is a two-day training program held on Wednesdays at noon until 4 p.m. and on Thursdays from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Red Cross headquarters on Dana Avenue.
Participants are taught how to distribute bulk items, handle logistics and planning of relief efforts, coordinate health services -- including mental health services -- and manage a shelter. Participants who have a background in mental health, healthcare or emergency services are given priority in deployment to affected areas.
Class participants are getting the training they need to be deployed to Texas or any other site facing a natural disaster.
The Cincinnati class had 60 participants on Wednesday night, and walk-ins are welcome, according to Regional Disaster Officer Christina Curtis.
"It's pretty amazing. We're always looking for good folks to come in and volunteer. To just see that many people who see what they see on TV and see the need out in the field, it was pretty impressive for us," she said. "We're pretty excited to be a bigger part of the picture and helping."
