by KYW's Dr. Marciene Mattleman

California, a state with frequent natural disasters, attracts an amazing number of people who offer to help. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger understands and appreciates the role of volunteers.

This week, he’s establishing California Volunteers, with an executive director, whose duties will be expanded as a cabinet secretary, playing a role in response efforts to disasters. A staff and budget are provided as well.

The Governor is quoted in the New York Times acknowledging that the state relies on volunteers in emergencies, but often isn’t well-organized for large numbers.

 Last fall 10,000 residents registered to volunteer during the wildfires and 23million dollars was donated to the state. With a budget crisis and a deficit, part of the role of the office will be to encourage contributions.

March is Red Cross Month and in Philadelphia last year alone, 7684 volunteers were trained and recruited. Let’s hope disasters won’t happen; but we know that we’ll be prepared.