During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Eastvale resident Alvin Jackson decided to give back to his community and took to the internet to research his options. He came upon the American Red Cross website and read through the two dozen plus volunteer positions available. As someone who loves to drive, the Transportation Specialist position caught Alvin’s eye. 

The position required picking-up human blood, plasma and platelet donations from the Red Cross Blood Center in Pomona, California, and delivering the precious cargo safely to hospitals throughout the Southern California region.

Alvin applied for the position, met with a supervisor, ran a test delivery and asked “Where do I sign up?!”. In his first year as a Transportation Specialist Alvin logged over 300 volunteer hours delivering life-saving blood products to patients in critical need.

“I know I’m doing something meaningful” Alvin shared, “I’m constantly getting a ‘thumbs-up’ from hospital staff who are always expressing their appreciation for my service.”

One conveyance that stood out for Alvin was the delivery of blood marked “STAT”, which meant a patient’s life depended on Alvin’s immediate transport.

“As I was driving, I’m thinking ‘wow, I’m actually saving someone’s life today. I will never meet this person but it’s so rewarding to know I’m helping save a life.’”

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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.