The most important thing you need to become a volunteer is the desire to help: Iryna Kravtsova Odesa

Іryna is a volunteer with the Ukrainian Red Cross emergency response team in the Odesa region. During her two years with the team, she has developed a wide range of skills and continues to learn and grow.

Iryna joined the team as a dog handler after taking part in joint training exercises with the emergency response team. Today, she helps develop the team’s search and rescue dog unit, works as a driver, takes part in emergency response and rescue operations, and supports evacuations, transportation, and first aid coverage at sporting events.

Iryna has more than 12 years of driving experience, as well as experience working as a junior dog-handling instructor. She has completed first aid courses and training in UAV operation — and there is much more learning ahead.

For Iryna, it is important to be ready to help in different situations, which is why she constantly develops her knowledge and practical skills.

She is motivated by the opportunity to keep learning and by being part of a team that has become like a second family to her over the past two years.

“What motivates me is being surrounded by people who are all looking in the same direction — helping others.”

Iryna knows how important it is to receive help at the right moment. In 2014, she was forced to leave her hometown of Donetsk. Because of this experience, she has a particular understanding of people facing difficult circumstances and in need of support.

For her, the greatest reward is the sincere gratitude of the people she helps.

“Even in difficult times, seeing a person smile makes it all worthwhile.”

Iryna believes that anyone who genuinely wants to help can join an emergency response team. Physical and psychological readiness can be developed, and the necessary skills can be learned. The most important thing is having the desire to be useful and help others.