Imagine you're well past middle-aged, alone in your rural home in the midst of a violent storm. Your neighbors aren't there to help, and you have no way to contact anyone. What would you do? Volunteers at The Athens Chapter of The American Red Cross and its Executive Director, Sandra Shirey, have been working for the past four years to educate the elderly and disabled of Athens County about what to do if this happens to them.

In 2007 The Athens Foundation granted the Athens Chapter of The American Red Cross $3,750 to help promote disaster awareness among the community. One-hundred and twenty-five survival backpacks were purchased at thirty dollars each to encourage disaster safety among the elderly and disabled.

"The backpacks have been distributed over the past six months through partner agencies," said Shirey.
Community members have responded with great enthusiasm.

"One elderly women said boy these are really wonderful," said Shirey.

She stressed the fact that the safety disaster backpacks are an influential tool in getting residents to come out and learn about disaster aid. They provide incentive for individuals to come to the meetings and gain knowledge about what to do in the event of an emergency.

These meetings not only provide an opportunity to get information about disaster situations, they also give those in need the chance to sign up for the Disaster Relief Network. This is a list of those who would need special attention in emergency situations, along with any special information that may be helpful in ensuring their safety.

Shirey said The Athens Foundation has been supportive through its "willingness to fund equipment" and "seeing what the community needs." The American Cross applies for Athens Foundation grants every year, and appreciates the help of the organization with their endeavors.

After 23 helpful, pivotal years at The American Red Cross, Shirey will be retiring. She has devoted countless hours to the Disaster Safety Network and numerous other projects. She is passionate about the well-being of her fellow citizens, and without her love for her community, many would undoubtedly go without. "If the community wants it, it will go," said Shirey. She has given back so much to get her community in order to give it the very things it has wanted. For that Athens is thankful, and wishes her the best for the future.