American Red Cross is recognizing the people at the heart of its mission during National Volunteer Week, observed April 19th through the 25th.
Since its founding in 1881, Red Cross volunteers have supported communities in times of need. Today, they make up about 90 percent of the organization’s workforce—helping with blood drives, disaster response, support for military families, and lifesaving education.
In Wisconsin alone, more than 2,600 volunteers contribute their time, while over 325,000 serve nationwide. Globally, that number reaches more than 17 million volunteers across 191 countries.
The Red Cross is currently calling for more volunteers to step forward. Free training is provided for several key roles, including Disaster Action Team members who respond to emergencies like home fires, shelter transition associates who help disaster victims find long-term housing, blood donor ambassadors who assist at donation sites, and transportation specialists who deliver critical blood supplies to hospitals.
Beckie Pinnow, Regional Volunteer Services Officer, says volunteers continue to bring “care and hope in the face of emergencies,” and encourages others to get involved.
To learn more or sign up, visit redcross.org/volunteer.