As the full extent of the devastation wrought by Cyclone Nargis becomes clearer, thousands of Myanmar Red Cross volunteers are working around the clock to reach and support those affected by the ferocious storm...

Over the past days, Red Cross volunteers have been distributing basic relief items such as tarpaulins, mosquito nets, potable water and water purification tablets. Teams of volunteers have also been through some of the worst affected areas along the Irrawaddy delta, assessing damage and needs of communities, including health needs.  Visit site

Thanks to Telecoms Sans Frontieres' (TSF) digital lifelines, victims of natural disasters can talk to their loved ones immediately after disasters. The charity, run by volunteers, sets up temporary communications infrastructure for the victims and disaster response charities to help them coordinate relief efforts.   Visit site

The book highlights the common features of safety and security that apply or could apply to humanitarian workers working in conflict areas. It explains the dangers volunteers might face and some of the likely threats to their work and gives advice on issues of personal security, use of common sense and judgement in the field. It reflects the ever-changing conflict environment in which humanitarians have to work and deals with new threats such as nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, and encompasses wider issues such as protection of humanitarian volunteers under international law and practical life.  Visit site

Please volunteer, writes Mike Morris, it's one of the most rewarding things you may do in your life.  Read entry

Father Agus Gunadi, 42, of the Roman Catholic Church of St Yusuf in Yogyakarta, has been helping people affected by the Java earthquake. He tells how a crisis centre has been set up by the parish to give aid and shelter to survivors.  Read entry