Warren Lewis’s Red Cross journey began when he was thirteen, at summer camp. Through a Belize Red Cross training program, he learned CPR, first aid and the confidence that comes with being prepared. These early lessons continue to shape his volunteer work today. Each time Warren takes on a new role, he never overlooks the training that comes with it. To him, a crucial aspect of volunteering is the chance “to learn new things and sharpen my skills.”

When a massive winter storm impacted the American Northeast and South this January, Warren accepted his first national deployment to Columbia, South Carolina. He had responded to disasters in the past but wanted to explore new ways to serve. He found that opportunity through a role as a Logistics Fulfillment Associate.

In Logistics, Warren was responsible for picking up, organizing and transporting resources to American Red Cross disaster shelters. This required coordinating with different team members and driving through challenging weather conditions. One of his most vivid deployment memories involved “going through the storm… reaching the point where I felt I was shivering but had the strength to keep going.”

Warren understood the serious threats the storm posed to local residents, who could suffer from hypothermia and storm-related injuries. In his second role in South Carolina, as a Shelter Service Associate, he worked closely with people staying in the shelter. Warren’s job was to talk with them, understand what they needed and help meet those needs. Often, he brought meals, assisted with laundry and supported other essential day‑to‑day shelter operations.

Because of his time volunteering at the shelter, he felt even more grateful for his life back home in Los Angeles. “It was a blessing to help,” he reflected, “giving [the people in the shelter] a warm blanket or a place to stay.”

Warren believes his humanitarian interests stem from his parents. Growing up, his mother was a nurse, and his father served in the military. “I was taught discipline from a young age, and I was taught to serve my community or anyone who needed my help,” he explained.

Warren also draws personal motivation from Black history. “Black History Month reminds me of what we have been through… to be always striving for greatness.”

Warren’s family values and commitment to community shine through in everything he does with the Red Cross. Through his actions and his stories, he represents the Red Cross with drive, generosity and deep respect for others.

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 follow us on social media.