By Carmela Burke

Tradition continues as the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region supports the Pasadena Tournament of Roses and Pasadena Fire Department at the 134th Rose Parade. 

On Monday, Jan. 2, 2023, more than 100 volunteers will take their positions at Red Cross First Aid Stations along the 5-1/2-mile parade route and pre/post-parade activities.

The Red Cross began its partnership in 1964 when tournament officials approached Red Cross representatives from the Pasadena chapter to set up three first aid stations for the parade. Today, there are 13 Red Cross first aid stations. 

Since late September 2022, volunteers – including 59 Red Cross Youth members – trained for weeks to gain certification in Emergency Medical Response, Basic Life Support and Blood Born Pathogens. Many of them have an interest in the medical field professionally. Devoting hours of experience as a first-aid volunteer was a natural choice. New and veteran volunteers value the training, teamwork, and camaraderie working during the parade, float viewing, and football game. 

What happens during a first-aider’s shift? 

First aid volunteers are posted at their stations. At the same time, another team is on foot patrol looking for spectators who might need medical attention.  They can be treated on scene or escorted to the nearest first aid station with issues ranging from slip-trip-fall, blisters, or heat exhaustion. First aid teams can also radio for paramedics to handle more advanced emergencies while evaluating and providing comfort to the individual. 
First Aid Station American Red Cross volunteers help minimize the consequences of injury or sudden illness during the Pasadena Tournament of Roses—in keeping with our mission of alleviating human suffering.   

Amplify your impact − volunteer!  

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check-in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience.  

Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals. For more information and to apply for either position, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday. 

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/LA or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossLA