By: Ashley Tillery
May 21 is National Red Cross Founders’ Day and we are taking a moment to salute all those volunteers who go above and beyond to take care of those in need each and every day.
The American Red Cross was founded by Clarissa Harlowe Barton in 1881, during the Civil War, and has served others for over 130 years. From donating blood to assisting with disaster causes, the American Red Cross has exemplified their mission statement, “Prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of Donors.”
More than 500,000 people volunteer with the organization yearly.
According to the American Red Cross, “Volunteers carry out 90% of the humanitarian work of The Red Cross.”
The role of a Red Cross volunteer varies. A Red Cross volunteer can have a leadership position as a community service leader, a blood drive leader, a health and safety leader, etc. Also, they can contribute to the organization by assisting with fundraising, educational classes and using their communication skills as way to encourage others to join.
If you are looking for an American Red Cross near you and would like to volunteer, visit www.redcross.org for more information.
It is never too late to give back to your community. Start now.
