This Black History Month, we honor "African Americans and Labor" by celebrating the contributions of emerging leaders in the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region. Their efforts in disaster relief, community resilience and advancing diversity reflect a legacy of service, empowerment and advocacy. By highlighting their work, we honor the past and inspire future generations to build equitable, thriving communities.

By Ny'Jay Poston/American Red Cross

Growing up, I had a history teacher who spoke of the American Red Cross whenever our lessons turned to moments in history that required resilience and compassion. I learned how Clara Barton carried the weight of an entire movement on her shoulders, founding an organization that has since become a beacon of hope for those in need. At the time, I understood that Red Cross helped others, but I didn’t fully grasp what that truly meant—or that I could be a part of it.  

Fast forward to today and I find myself standing at the intersection of history and opportunity as an intern for the Red Cross Los Angeles Region, an opportunity gifted to me through my work with the Angeleno Corps—a path I began when Mayor Garcetti’s office launched the program to empower youth in areas impacted by COVID-19. Through this program, I worked with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, where I saw firsthand how dedication and compassion can change lives.  

During my time with HireLA and the Coalition for Responsible Community Development, I was reintroduced to the Red Cross—not through a historical lens but as an opportunity to get involved. I was no longer a student hearing about the past, I was a young adult standing at a crossroads, realizing that helping others wasn’t just something “other people” did; it was something I could do. The Red Cross became more than a symbol of aid; it became a calling. I decided to take the next step and join the Red Cross, a name I’d heard in so many stories. It was time to create Red Cross stories of my own.  

My responsibilities as an intern are twofold: first, to learn—about myself, about management and about how to show up for others, especially those who have experienced loss and grief due to disaster. Whether I’m acquiring a new skill or simply sitting with someone who needs a listening ear, I’m discovering how every small action can create ripples of change. Second, I’m here to help—to offer my time and energy to build a stronger foundation for those who need it most and to effectively bridge communities and people.  

I hope to explore even more with the Red Cross. Whether it’s disaster response, community education, or simply being present when someone needs a helping hand, I’m driven to continue this path. Clara Barton’s vision inspires me every day and as I look toward the future, I hope to stand alongside others who share this mission to make a difference, no matter how big or small.

Learn more about the Red Cross Mission at redcross.org/la

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.