Tiny Heroes, Mighty Skills: Pathfinders Learn Disaster Response

The staff of Middle East University were perplexed when they saw early Sunday morning a group of running teenagers in the campus of university. What is that? They kept asking each other. The faces of the kids were etched with concentration. This isn’t playtime; it’s serious training! On a sunny Sunday, 8th of June, 32 young pathfinders in the Middle East and North African Union embarked on an adventure unlike any other – learning how to be first responders in times of disaster.

Led by ADRA (Adventist Development and Relief Agency) and the Health Department of MENAUM (Middle East North Africa Union Mission), this wasn’t a usual pathfinder’s class. Denis Baratov, the MENA Regional Director for ADRA, kicked things off with a captivating presentation, weaving a tale about ADRA’s history and its remarkable work in responding to emergencies across the globe. He painted a picture of hope amidst chaos, showing these young minds that they too could become agents of change.

Then came the first challenge – a relay race! Divided into two teams, the pathfinders had to meticulously assemble a first aid kit from a bag filled with intriguing distractions. Teddy bears, books, vitamins, different medicines and bandages – were they essential or just red herrings? This exercise wasn’t just about speed; it was about sharp decision-making and understanding the crucial elements of emergency preparedness.

But the training didn’t stop there. Wendy Rowan, a paramedic expert, stepped in to guide them through the intricacies of first aid. From assessing the condition of an injured person to creating makeshift stretchers for the severely wounded, these young heroes learned practical skills that could one day save lives.

The real test came with a thrilling simulation exercise orchestrated by Allan Zamer from ADRA Lebanon. A devastating earthquake had struck the region, leaving two villages – Adrastan and Djameabad – in ruins.  Our young responders were deployed to assess the damage, plan relief efforts, and provide immediate assistance.

Even finding the “destroyed” villages was not an easy task. The kids were given a map of the area where the affected villages were marked. And their task was to find them using the map. This was how ADRA tested their orienteering skills.

Navigating through debris-strewn roads, they encountered a scene straight out of a disaster movie: broken limbs, head injuries, and blood staining the ground. With newfound confidence, they sprang into action, applying bandages, splinting fractures, and even calling for “ambulances” – ingeniously improvised by ADRA. An improvised ambulance was called for severe cases, reinforcing the importance of coordinated emergency response.

Beyond physical care, these young pathfinders demonstrated empathy and compassion as they conducted needs assessments, interviewing villagers and distributing food parcels and hygiene kits. This experience wasn’t just about technical skills; it was about understanding the human impact of disasters and responding with both competence and kindness.

As the training concluded, a wave of enthusiasm washed over the participants. Their faces, beaming with pride and purpose, were a testament to the power of education and the indomitable spirit of young people who are determined to make a difference in the world.

“Now I understand how ADRA works in disasters and the challenges they face,” said one participant. Others shared their desire to become ADRA volunteers, inspired by the motto: “So all may live as God intended.”

This training not only equipped the Pathfinders with life-saving skills but also instilled in them a passion for humanitarian service, ensuring they are ready to make a difference when disaster strikes.

ADRA extends its heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and to Middle East University that contributed to the successful execution of a training program. ADRA particularly acknowledges the invaluable contribution of Marcia McEdward, Head of Health Department at the Middle East North Africa Union Mission (MENAUM). Her dedication and unwavering support played a significant role in making this training a resounding success.

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About ADRA

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency is the international humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church serving in 120 countries. Its work empowers communities and changes lives around the globe by providing sustainable community development and disaster relief. ADRA’s purpose is to serve humanity so all may live as God intended. 

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