The American Red Cross is proud to celebrate volunteer Mike McGowan, who has been appointed by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders to serve on the Governor’s Advisory Commission on National Service and Volunteerism, a bipartisan body that helps guide and strengthen volunteerism, civic engagement, and national service initiatives across Arkansas.

McGowan, a resident of North Little Rock, brings decades of professional leadership experience and a passion for community service to the commission. Following a successful career in telecommunications sales, he retired in May 2025 and began volunteering with the American Red Cross in July 2025.

As a Government Operations Service Associate with the Red Cross, McGowan supports efforts to build and strengthen relationships with emergency management partners and community stakeholders throughout Arkansas. Since joining the organization, he has participated in training and attended Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) meetings, connecting with county emergency management officials and community partners.

“I enjoy helping people and connecting folks with needs to those that can help them,” McGowan said. “One of the opportunities I’ve had with the Red Cross is sharing our story, especially the work of the Great Arkansas Chapter, with people at local events and helping them understand the impact we make in communities every day.”

One of McGowan’s most memorable accomplishments as a volunteer has been helping create new opportunities for Red Cross support and engagement. He recently connected a Red Cross philanthropic officer with the chief financial officer of an Arkansas-based Fortune 500 company to explore increased corporate support for the organization’s mission.

The Governor’s Advisory Commission on National Service and Volunteerism works with Engage Arkansas to advance civic engagement, volunteerism, and service opportunities throughout the state. The commission helps identify community needs, establish priorities for service programs, promote partnerships, and support responsible stewardship of volunteer and national service resources.

McGowan says he views his appointment as an opportunity to advocate for volunteers and the important role they play in Arkansas communities.

“I believe my role is to help keep the Red Cross and our mission to alleviate suffering in the face of emergencies at the forefront of volunteer service in Arkansas,” McGowan said. “I also want to help ensure that volunteers are recognized for the tremendous value they bring to our state. Partnerships, preparation, training and proper volunteer resource allocation are critical to our volunteers’ success.”

His appointment reflects the strong tradition of volunteer service that supports communities across Arkansas and aligns closely with the Red Cross mission of preventing and alleviating human suffering in the face of emergencies.

“Volunteers are the heart of the American Red Cross,” said Dr. Riva Brown, executive director of the American Red Cross Greater Arkansas Chapter. “Mike’s appointment is a testament to his dedication to service and his commitment to strengthening communities across Arkansas. We are excited to see the positive impact he will make in this important statewide leadership role.”