Gains of Volunteers, a Key Stakeholder in Disaster Response, on Disaster Preparedness

Abstract Incorporating the perspectives of volunteers who undertake various roles in disaster situations is crucial for developing effective response strategies and mitigating future disasters, ultimately contributing to creating disaster-resilient societies. This study examines the experiences of individuals who voluntarily participated in intervention activities during the acute phase of the 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye and explores how their experiences influence disaster preparedness behaviors. The research was conducted using an in-depth interview methodology, with twelve volunteers selected through purposeful sampling. Both face-to-face and virtual interviews were conducted, and the collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The study identified five key themes – motivation, environmental conditions, experience, capacity, and reaction – that shape the post-disaster gains of volunteers. These findings provide valuable insights into the role of spontaneous volunteers in disaster management and their contributions to enhancing community resilience.