Jessica Debalski

About Jessica Debalski

I am seeking new opportunities within an organization that’s focused on helping others. Proven track record of collaboration, facilitation, leadership, planning, public speaking, partnership management and a passion for mission driven organizations. My specific areas of knowledge include volunteer management and development, emergency management, community relations, government relations, partnerships, disaster technical expertise, event production logistics and organization.

Experience

1. Division Disaster State Relations Director at American Red Cross

   American Red Cross

   Jan 2016 — Present

   Serves as the Primary Relationship Manager for the State of Texas and FEMA Region 6 and manage state government relationships by conducting joint planning, sharing information, exercising, and training; ensures key stakeholders in the state (state EMA, NGOS, Governor and elected officials) are briefed and clearly understand the role of Red Cross; ensures that commitments made for Red Cross resources are understood and achievable. Provide overall guidance, direction and support for Preparedness and Recovery Programs in twelve-state division, supporting geographically distributed teams of volunteers and paid staff. Key Accomplishments- Project co-lead for the 2018 and 2020 Disaster Program Manager Conferences, which included disaster related trainings (prepare, respond, recover), educational workshops, best practices, valuable collaboration, and networking opportunities for over 100 field staff across our twelve-state division. Focused discussions around engaging volunteers to enable a better work life balance. Supported logistics by venue and vendor selection, expense budget, grant budgets, transportation, production schedules, and communication- Serve on the project team to improve the effectiveness of cross-border response to a potential catastrophic disaster in North America. This project is implemented by the American Red Cross in partnership with the Canadian Red Cross and Mexican Red Cross, and with the participation of those countries’ respective federal, state and provincial government entities involved in disaster response- Managed Southwest Border Operation Response in 20••••19 due to an influx of migrants seeking asylum at the Texas border. Red Cross provided material resources (cots, blankets, comfort kits) and training, and administered the Restoring Family Links (RFL) Program or reunification services to NGOs and FBO supporting individuals and families seeking shelter and assistance in communities along the southwest border.

Education

• The University of Georgia

  Bachelor of Arts

  2006 — 2008

Skills

• Management
• Program Development
• Cpr Certified
• Supervisory Skills
• Government
• Nonprofits
• Volunteer Management
• Training
• Policy
• Customer Service
• Public Speaking
• Event Planning
• Planning
• Leadership
• Grant Writing
• Fundraising
• Project Planning
• Leadership Development
• Coordination
• Emergency Management
• Project Management
• Event Management
• Emergency Services
• Budgets
• Community Outreach
• Community Development