LOS ANGELES, December 31, 2025 — Since 1964, the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region has been on the front lines of safety during one of Southern California’s most celebrated traditions, the Tournament of Roses Parade.  

On Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, more than 160 volunteers will be positioned across 13 First Aid Stations along the 5 ½-mile parade route and during pre- and post-parade activities. Each volunteer is trained in lifesaving skills including CPR, first aid, oxygen administration and bloodborne pathogen safety. 

Volunteers bring a wide range of expertise including emergency medical responders, EMTs, nurses and doctors. Additionally, about 60 are youth trained and certified through the Youth First Aid Station Training program (YFAST). Together, these volunteers form highly coordinated teams: one radios for backup, another documents patient details and a third provides direct care to keep every case running smoothly. 

“Whether it’s responding to disasters or supporting community events like the Rose Parade, teamwork ensures we can deliver help and hope when it’s most needed,” said Jacquelyn Clites, CEO of the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region.

Last year, Red Cross volunteers treated 115 patients and saved 10 lives during the parade and post-parade activities. These efforts underscore the importance of teamwork, a value celebrated in the 2026 theme, "The Magic in Teamwork”.  

The American Red Cross is honored to help keep this beloved tradition safe for everyone. Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, thousands of parade participants and hundreds of thousands of spectators can enjoy the magic of New Year’s Day in Pasadena. 

This effort is made possible through partnership with the Pasadena Fire Department and the Tournament of Roses. These partnerships and volunteer efforts are just one example of how the Red Cross serves communities year-round. Volunteers make up 90 percent of the American Red Cross workforce and support the Red Cross mission. There are many ways Red Cross volunteers help people in need. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, 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 or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

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