By Michael Bowman

When Tyler Gillespie arrived at the University of Arkansas as an 18-year-old freshman, he was eager to immerse himself in as many activities as possible. Now in his junior year, Tyler balances his job as a resident assistant and role as a member of the Arkansas Razorback football team video crew with his responsibilities as a full-time student. Yet his most rewarding experience has been Tyler’s service to the American Red Cross as a Disaster Action Team member.

Gillespie, a Criminology major with a minor in Child Advocacy Studies, wanted community service to be a meaningful part of his college experience. He quickly began searching for the right opportunity to help others in their greatest time of need and soon discovered volunteer opportunities with the Red Cross.

“I realized that I wanted to be the person who was responding and helping people after disasters. As such, I signed up online to become a Disaster Action Team member, and here I am!”

Since volunteering with the Red Cross, Gillespie has consistently demonstrated a willingness to take on new challenges, as evidenced by his impressive array of contributions. He established shelters in tornado-ravaged areas in Arkansas and Missouri, conducted virtual staff training, collaborated with local media outlets after a devastating tornado in Northwest Arkansas, recruited and trained volunteers, and created a chapter newsletter. Now in his current role as Mass Care Coordinator, 20-year-old Gillespie is making a significant impact on the lives of people in Northwest Arkansas.

“In his Mass Care role, Gillespie has redefined our chapter’s approach to sheltering and contributed significantly to shaping regional sheltering policies—an impressive accomplishment that demonstrates both his dedication and his innovative mindset,” said Julie Stolting, Community Disaster Program Manager for the Red Cross of Northwest Arkansas.

Taking on so many responsibilities and assuming leadership roles during crises might be overwhelming for many people at his young age. Gillespie is quick to credit Red Cross mentors for preparing him for any situation.

“I didn't have any fear of it or anything. It was more like I'm responding to people who have lost everything,” said Gillespie. “Linda Morgan took me under her wing and showed me how to talk to people, how to provide empathy and compassion. That's how I really learned to do it well. I fell in love with it and have been doing it ever since.”

“Tyler is a great volunteer and has gotten more involved over the years,” said Linda Morgan, Red Cross of Northwest Arkansas Disaster Program Manager Volunteer Partner. “When he takes on a role, he puts 100% into whatever he is doing.”

Gillespie’s love for helping others extends beyond Northwest Arkansas. During summer and holiday breaks, he travels home to Kansas City, Missouri, and works with the Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri Red Cross chapter. No matter where he is or what needs to be done, Gillespie is ready to step in and support those in need.

“Tyler has consistently demonstrated leadership and reliability,” said Julio Arroyo, Community Disaster Program Specialist, Red Cross of Northwest Arkansas.  “For example, when there were coverage gaps for Duty Officers in St. Louis, he stepped up to provide support. He also volunteered for virtual deployments to help address staffing shortages during critical times.”

Gillespie’s impressive list of contributions to the Red Cross might be enough for some people to rest on their laurels. But he is still looking for opportunities to serve others.

“I thought about doing Service the Armed Forces because I just think that would be really cool to give back to our military partners.”

From handling routine tasks to leading teams during a major crisis, Tyler Gillespie thrives on being part of a team whose mission is to provide aid and comfort to those facing hardship.

“My favorite thing about being a part of the Red Cross is being able to help people and being surrounded by a community of volunteers and employees who have that same desire,” said Tyler. “I've just always throughout my life wanted to be that light and help people. We look at the news every day, and you see so much darkness and pain that happens in the world. I just really want to be that light and provide that hope and that compassion.”

Now in his early twenties, graduation is on the horizon. Gillespie’s education and extracurricular activities at the University of Arkansas have equipped him to succeed in his career goals. His experiences with the Red Cross have left a lasting impact on him and the people he served during disasters.

“My time at the American Red Cross has changed me both personally and professionally. I have learned a deeper understanding of how to connect and communicate with people in crisis. I have learned how to manage large teams of people and help ensure they are seen and feel seen. I have grown confident in myself, and I have been able to see the tangible impact I am having.”

Tyler Gillespie is proof that anyone, regardless of age, can be a light for their community.

If you would like to make a positive impact on your community, like Tyler, visit redcross.org/volunteer and join our mission.