But showing up to setup bunks and hand out coffee and donuts isn't something a technical person should be tasked with.
Then you are too limited to actually help. Most hams can't repair commercial installations that may be down. Only so many hams are needed to make a communications link. Basically 1 on each end. So if your standing around waiting for a turn at the radio and have decided that's all your going to do, your in the way of those who really want to help and are willing to do what it takes to make others healthy and safe.
When you tell an agency this is all I can do, they will begin to ignore you. They don't have time for your demands. And even less time when their normal routine is disrupted.
When you tell an agency you are here to help them help people in their time of need, they are more likely to be interested.
Think about it this way...Your in a town destroyed by a tornado. Everything you own is now damaged or gone forever. You make your way to a place set up to help with food, drinks, and shelter. The line waiting for help is long. So that begs the question. Are you more useful at that moment listening to a radio, or actually doing what it takes to help the people in line? Are you really that
self important that you will stand around while your neighbor needs the simple basics to survive? Can you imagine the Red Cross ONLY processing blood for victims instead of providing for the needs of those in need?
This is where I disagree. People should be helping people. Even with a cup of coffee or handing them a blanket. Something that I learned when my family and I lost most of what we had to a house fire. And the many who helped and offered help were greatly appreciated.
Do you really think I, or anyone for that matter, am going to give a rats @$$ about your wanting to only play radio instead of helping out?