The Nuts & Bolts of Mission 4636 Volunteer Work

We're so glad you've decided to join our mission! Your first question is probably "where do I start?" To begin, you'll need to head to http://www.samasource.org/contribute/volunteer to obtain your own User Email, which will allows us to identify all the amazing work you personally have done. You will then be directed to a link where you will sign in, and begin saving lives!

The SMS Form:

1) Messages currently waiting to be translated into English will appear in brackets at the top of your screen, typically written in either French or Creole.

If no messages appear, please check back with us soon, or hit the “refresh” button on your browser. The queue never stays empty for long!

If the message at is NOT an emergency - such as an injury report or a request for food, water, or shelter - skip translation and click the 'Submit Task' button - we won't delete it, but translating it is not a priority.

2) Add the name of the person the SMS is about (if present) into the First & Last Name fields.

3) Select the appropriate "Status" & "Category / Aid Request" from the drop-down menu provided. Note: An injury or illness should always take precedence over requests for supplies. If multiple catagories apply, please select the most urgent need.

4) Translate the message into English to the best of your ability. If you are unsure of a translation, or can't figure out a word, do your best, and make a note in the section below.

5) "Reporter Name" is the name of the person providing the report (NOT the translator). Often this is the same information you provided in the first two fields. If so, simply copy & paste.

6) Add the longitude and latitude by zooming in on the map provided, and clicking the address / landmark provided by the sender. Remember, the farther in you zoom, the more accurate your location, & the quicker crews can reach those in need!

If you are having trouble finding the exact address, use http://hypercube.telascience.org/haiti/

For commonly submitted landmarks and their latitude / longitudes click: https://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0AvF_12pc7fQCdHhnVkZPWEpjUlhYNTZsYkFIbzM1eUE&hl=en

7) Add the full address, if provided.

8) Click 'Submit Task' - the record will be saved and forwarded to the appropriate organizations - thank you!

9) A new message will appear (if there are more) - back to step 1!

Creole Assistance:
http://www.haitisurf.com/dictionary.shtml
http://www.freelang.net/online/haitian_creole.php?lg=gb