Military teen Gyan Park says volunteering with the American Red Cross feels like he’s really making a difference. Read how this extraordinary youth went from a nervous underclassman into a confident leader and why you too should get involved.
April is Month of the Military Child. The month marks a time to not only be aware of all military children and the unique lives they may lead but also a time to recognize and give thanks for their contributions in their communities.
Being a teen isn’t easy and being a military teen living on an overseas military base brings a whole new set of challenges. The American Red Cross supports over 220,000 military families each year, providing in-person support on over 40 overseas military bases and maintaining a presence on 380 worldwide. Gyan Park is part of that mission.
Gyan now lives with his family on U.S. Army base Camp Carroll in South Korea. His experience with the Red Cross transformed him from a nervous underclassman into a community cornerstone, capable of leading with confidence and empathy. For him, the Red Cross provided him a place to explore his talents and a venue to exercise his abilities.
Read the testimony from this exceptional military child about his experience volunteering through the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces program on U.S. Army Garrison Daegu, South Korea.
My Red Cross Journey
By Gyan Park
“In November 2023, I made one of the best decisions of my middle school years. I joined the American Red Cross youth group. Every Tuesday after school, we gathered at the Soldier Support Center to take on meaningful tasks like maintaining CPR manikins, setting up training sessions, preparing for community events and sorting donations. It felt like more than just volunteering. I felt like I was making a difference.
"I confess, I was nervous when I showed up on my first day. I was the newest and youngest member, surrounded by upperclassmen I didn’t know. But that quickly changed. Thanks to the encouragement of mentors and fellow volunteers, I found my place. I gained confidence, learned how to lead, and discovered the power of teamwork.
"The Red Cross didn’t just give me volunteer hours. It gave me opportunities. I earned certifications in First Aid/CPR/AED and Hands-Only CPR, completely free. I led presentations, staffed event booths, and developed skills that will benefit me for life.
"What truly made the experience special was the community. Our supervisors created a warm, welcoming environment, always supportive, sometimes even bringing snacks and treats. Their kindness motivated me to give back even more.
"If you’re thinking about joining, don’t hesitate. The Red Cross youth group is more than a club, it’s a chance to grow, serve and lead. And if you’re already a member, keep going. The time and energy you give will come back to you in ways you never expected.” - Gyan S. Park
Providing opportunities to volunteer and learn new skills is just one part of the support the Red Cross provides to our nation’s military, veterans and their families. Through our Service to the Armed Forces programs, we maintain a presence on over 380 military installations and deployment sites worldwide. Click here to learn more.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Take a class and be ready to respond if an emergency strikes.
