Seven hundred and sixty (760) Montana residents have taken Red Cross disaster training courses since July 1st in classes sponsored in part by a grant from the Qwest Foundation. “This partnership is so unique and valuable,” says Montana Red Cross CEO Wil Huett of Great Falls, “Qwest was recently honored with the Red Cross’ Circle of Humanitarians Award.”

The award recognizes Qwest’s commitment to support Red Cross disaster-response training in chapters throughout its 14-state region. Qwest has donated $240,000 from 2004 into 2005 to fund disaster-response volunteer training in chapters in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

Disaster-response volunteers assist in a variety of natural and human-caused disasters. The volunteers typically respond to local emergencies, though in major incidents – such as last fall’s hurricanes – volunteers may travel to assist in other locations. Sixty-seven (67) Montana volunteers, some trained under the partnership with Qwest, responded to help the victims of last fall’s hurricanes.

“By having a cadre of trained volunteers in our communities across the United States, we continue our mission of neighbor helping neighbor,” said Senior Vice President, Preparedness and Response for the American National Red Cross, Joe Becker. “Qwest’s support is crucial not just in one state, but throughout a region, that is both impressive and greatly appreciated. We are thrilled with their support and look forward to continuing the partnership.”

In addition to funding the disaster-response training program, Qwest distributed one million “Emergency Checklist” fliers containing Red Cross information designed to help families in case of an emergency. Qwest distributed the checklists through numerous channels, including having technicians leave them with customers on installation and maintenance visits.

“All eight Red Cross offices in Montana offer disaster training classes on a regular basis,” says Huett. “We’re both proud and grateful to have a partnership with the Qwest Foundation which helps underwrite this important training program.”

The seven hundred and sixty (760) new volunteers were trained in a total of 144 classes statewide. Individuals interested in Red Cross disaster training should contact the nearest office.