HARLINGEN – The American Red Cross is asking prospective volunteers not to visit areas affected by Hurricane Harvey on their own.

Faced with new interest, the Red Cross wants volunteers to join their organization.

"Getting in their car and driving to Houston is not a good idea," said American Red Cross executive director Danella Hughes. "If they really want to help, they can go on the website. They can find out where they can donate, they can find out where they can volunteer."

On Monday, a new class of volunteers was getting orientation. The Red Cross wants the volunteers to start contributing as soon as possible.

"That could have been us that [could have] been affected by it," said Tyler Medill-Cruz, a Valley nursing student.

Anyone who wants to volunteer can visit the local Red Cross website or visit the following Valley locations to sign up:

American Red Cross – McAllen

956-787-7851

425 W State Ave.

Pharr, Tx 78577

American Red Cross – Harlingen

956-423-0523

6914 W Expressway 83

Harlingen, Tx 78552