By Shiv Bansal, American Red Cross

My journey as an American Red Cross volunteer started when I was a freshman in high school. I started by participating in the Missing Maps program. The idea of this program was so impactful to me as I was helping to improve disaster relief by mapping areas that were unknown or missing from open and accessible maps, which would further enable first responders to make smart decisions regarding relief efforts.

Then, at 16, I became a Blood Donor Ambassador with the Red Cross. In this role, I help ensure every blood donor has a wonderful experience from start to finish of their blood donation process with the Red Cross. I warmly greet donors, assist them in checking in, answer any questions they have about the blood donation process, and express heartfelt thanks for their generous donation. As a senior Blood Donor Ambassador, I also mentor and recruit new donor ambassadors. The Red Cross is the United States’ largest blood supplier, providing more than 40% of the nation’s blood supply. Remembering this fact helps me know even though this role can seem small or unimportant, it plays a big role in securing life-saving blood for those who desperately need it. I have also received my CPR certification from my local Red Cross training center. With this certification, I feel very empowered that I can help save many lives and make a difference.

Wanting to take my involvement with the Red Cross to the next level, I applied for a role with the National Red Cross Youth Council, and now happily serve as the Missouri and Arkansas Region’s Youth and Young Adult Ambassador. Through this role, I am honored to help support the National Youth Council’s initiatives and in carrying out regional projects. Currently, I am helping to implement a regional project with Disaster Cycle Services to increase education for Hands Only CPR.

From my volunteer experiences, I feel very thankful for everything I am learning along the way about the Red Cross and its mission. I feel very happy to be a part of an organization where I can help save people’s lives and make a difference in the world.

Anyone can get involved as a Red Cross volunteer by visiting their local chapter or www.redcross.org/volunteer to find opportunities near you.