The Maine Chapters of the American Red Cross are pleased to host the 2009 Maine Disaster Institute (MEDI) to be held at Camp Keyes in Augusta, Maine. The Institute will be a full four day event from Thursday, November 12 through Sunday, November 15, 2009.

The primary purpose of MEDI is to develop the leadership and professional skills of the American Red Cross employees and volunteers. At the Institute, there are opportunities to learn about important Red Cross programs and initiatives that impact each Chapter’s planning and performance. It is designed to bring together Red Cross participants from a diverse number of activities and locations so they may have the opportunity to both network with and learn from each other. Training and professional development are critical to our chapters’ collective ability to respond to disasters and meet the mission of the American Red Cross.

Instructors at the MEDI will provide the very best training possible. MEDI will offer courses to increase the Red Cross’ capacity to respond to disasters in Maine; the classes were chosen with a focus on providing both the basic and those less frequently offered advanced classes.

We invite you to join us and take advantage of the education and networking offered at this year’s Institute! An important note: If you are a qualified disaster volunteer or employee of one of the Maine Chapters, we are offering the training, accommodations, and meals at no cost to you or your chapter. If you cannot attend for the full four days, please consider registering for one or two classes to help round out or expand your personal training.

On behalf of the MEDI Committee, we look forward to providing this valuable training.