By Alexis Quevedo/American Red Cross

American Red Cross youth volunteer Ricky Guo spent time this summer on the front lines of wildfire recovery, helping communities devastated by the catastrophic LA fires that began early in 2025. Though not directly affected himself, Ricky devoted his Saturdays to working alongside community partner Hope Crisis Response International (HCRN), assisting with cleanup efforts to restore homes damaged by lingering ash and smoke.

The Red Cross, working closely with local agencies and partners like HCRN, has been a lifeline for residents facing the daunting task of rebuilding. HCRN’s specialized soot and smoke cleanup has helped families take vital steps toward recovery, with volunteers like Ricky lending crucial support.

The scale of destruction Ricky witnessed firsthand stunned him. “I had seen clips of the destruction on the news. However, seeing it in person was a surreal experience,” he said. The widespread devastation across cities, homes, stores and structures reduced to ruins, brought into sharp focus how deeply the fires had upended lives.

In his role as a disaster recovery volunteer, Ricky has vacuumed fire ash and dust from homes and used specialty dry sponges to scrub smoke damaged walls. He describes the work as exhausting and time-consuming—from scrubbing walls to washing ceilings—but necessary.

When asked what inspired him to volunteer, Ricky shared that a friend already volunteering with the Red Cross encouraged him to get involved. That encouragement led Ricky to find a hands-on way to make a difference. Along the way, he has met incredible people—from fellow volunteers to families rebuilding their lives. Listening to those affected has deepened his empathy and understanding of the challenges communities face.

Ready to make a real difference like Ricky? Join a Red Cross youth volunteer team today and help support communities prepare for, and recover from disasters. Whether you have a few hours or more to give, your time and effort can bring hope and healing to those in need. Don’t wait! Get involved and be part of a community that changes lives. Visit redcross.org to start your volunteer journey today.

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.