Dee Buckstaff, a resident of Jackson, Wyoming has been a dedicated volunteer with the American Red Cross since the late 1990s, embodying the spirit of community service and making a profound impact on the lives of those around her. Her journey as a volunteer is marked by a deep commitment to training and helping others in times of crisis.
Dee initially joined the American Red Cross as an Instructor for First Aid and CPR around 1999 or 2000. In the early 2000s, she transitioned to become a Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteer, specializing in responding to disasters like home fires and landslides. Her motivation to get involved stems from her background as a Child Care worker, where the need for First Aid and CPR certification prompted her to become an instructor. In the 1990s, she recognized the scarcity of classes in her area, leading her to take on the role of an instructor to support child care providers and anyone eager to learn life-saving skills during medical emergencies.
Currently holding the position of Community Leader for Teton County, Wyoming, Dee is also an Instructor for First Aid, CPR and AED. Her multifaceted role includes being an essential member of the DAT team, responding to disasters and providing immediate assistance to those in need.
For Dee, the most rewarding aspect of her volunteer work has been witnessing the tangible impact of her training. Two of her First Aid and CPR students have successfully saved lives by administering CPR until advanced medical services arrived. One such instance involved a friend of Dees, underscoring the profound impact that education and preparedness can have in real-life situations; “It is amazing to see him around town and think that providing training to his wife is the reason he is still here.”
Responding to disasters, Dee has encountered numerous heartwarming stories. One memorable experience involved assisting a neighbor whose home was engulfed in flames. Dee’s swift response, arranging short-term housing and providing assistance with finding local construction companies, left a lasting impact on the grateful family. The lighthearted moment when the woman expressed a desire for “Red Cross jammies” to complement the blankets reflects the unique connections formed in times of crisis.
When asked about the importance of community involvement, Dee emphasizes that even in close-knit communities like Jackson Hole, there are moments when a caring bit of help is crucial. The sense of comfort derived from knowing that the Red Cross is present and ready to assist when needed is invaluable to community members.
Dee attributes her passion for helping others to her mother, a high school teacher who dedicated evenings and weekends to supporting her students through challenging times. Her mother’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of others served as a powerful inspiration for Dee’s own journey of community service.
As advice for aspiring Red Cross volunteers, Dee underscores the significance of the training received, not only in preparing to help others but also in gaining valuable skills for personal preparedness. The resources provided by the Red Cross can make a difference in one’s own life, serving as a safety net in the face of unexpected disasters.
Dee’s unwavering dedication to the American Red Cross has not only positively impacted her community but has also inspired others to recognize the transformative potential of volunteerism and preparedness in the face of adversity. Her story stands as a testament to the profound difference individuals can make when they choose to lend a helping hand.
Red Cross Month is a national tradition that began in March 1943 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first Red Cross Month proclamation — and each U.S. president has followed ever since.
Join the Red Cross Month celebration by visiting redcross.org/volunteertoday to make a financial donation, become a volunteer or take a lifesaving skills course.