Meet Greg. Emergency Disaster Services

Greg Lattera has led a life of service and believes in the importance of volunteering and giving back to one’s community. He has invested his time as a Boy Scout growing up, served our country through AmeriCorps, and now is an on-call volunteer for The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (EDS).

Greg was introduced to The Salvation Army through a friend that has partnered with the Army in his work as a police officer. Greg wanted to become involved with EDS after learning about their significant role in the community and because he truly believes in the Army’s mission; to meet human needs in God’s name without discrimination.

Greg has been a dispatcher for The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services since October 2007. He serves as the “ears” of the organization by being the first to learn of emergencies in the region and beginning the chain of response. While on scene he also handles the logistics of EDS operations by making sure there are enough volunteers to provide adequate aid. Because of the EDS's proximity to the community and a constant awareness, The Salvation Army is among those first on the scene when disaster strikes.

During the recent 10 alarm fire in Conshohocken, Greg and The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services team remained on the scene for 4 days and had a substantial impact on the community and other responders. “We care for everyone and do not leave until we are sure people’s immediate needs are taken care of.” The Salvation Army EDS partners with emergency management personnel and many other organizations to form a cooperative team to help people through difficult times.
 
Volunteering with EDS has opened doors for additional training opportunities for Greg, who has recently completed FEMA IS-700 training. This national program teaches emergency responders from the government, private-sector, and nongovernmental organizations a standarized method so they can work together efficiently during disasters and emergencies.

Greg enjoys the camaraderie of The Salvation Army EDS staff and other volunteers, but “it is the mission and the people that make getting up at 4:00 or 5:00 a.m. worth it. I’m glad I’m able to help when it is most needed and give back to the community.”

For more information on volunteering with The Salvation Army Philadelphia Metro Response Team, contact Paul Jordan at 215-825-4631.