As the end of 2020 draws near and we begin to think about New Year’s resolutions, consider becoming an American Red Cross volunteer.
Representing more than 90% of the Red Cross workforce, volunteers are the backbone of our lifesaving mission. In a year of the coronavirus pandemic and relentless disasters, people of all backgrounds have shared how rewarding it’s been to give back and help ease the suffering of others.
HOW TO HELP The need for volunteers is constant, and their support makes it possible to provide relief and comfort for disaster victims, lifesaving blood products for patients, emergency support for military families and veterans, and much more. Join us by visiting redcross.org/volunteertoday to learn about our most-needed volunteer positions, including:
Disaster Response: Want to help local families cope with emergencies? Most of the more than 60,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year are local home fires, and our Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers are there to provide emotional support, financial assistance and information to help families begin the process of recovery.
Volunteer from Home (Virtual Positions): You can even help from the comfort of your own home. In times of disaster or social isolation, it can be difficult for people to leave their homes to volunteer in the community. Even while staying home, there is opportunity to support the Red Cross mission virtually. We have a wide range of volunteer opportunities in which volunteers can engage remotely. Learn how a group of virtual volunteers in Korea and Japan, many of them military spouses, were able to assist victims of the western wildfires earlier this year.
STAYING SAFE Everyone’s safety is our top priority, and we are working with public health officials to help keep our communities and volunteers safe during COVID-19. When considering volunteer opportunities, review the CDC guidance for people who are at higher risk for severe illness, consult your health care provider and follow local guidance.
Resolve to volunteer today. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to get started.