A fire broke out in a multi-family, 38-unit apartment complex in Oakland, leaving the building uninhabitable and its residents displaced. Most didn’t speak English and desperately needed assistance. While a temporary shelter was available for a couple of nights, the fire caused such extensive damage that it would take months of repairs before the families could move back in.

Kane Wong and his American Red Cross team called many potential shelters and arranged for a church in the neighborhood to provide shelter for the affected individuals for an extended period of time. “We also arranged for a translator, feeding and other assistance from our partners,” he said. “It’s great to make things happen, lessening client anxiety and misery.” Kane also commented that the church thanked the Red Cross for allowing them to participate in the relief efforts. This collaboration furthers the church’s goals to support the community.

Collaborating with government partners to help people affected by a disaster is the work of External Relations that Kane likes the best. “In that role, I’m the Red Cross bridge between various cities and county entities. We ensure our government partners understand what assistance we provide, and we understand their needs,” he said. “During an incident, we’re working together to ensure our community response activities are coordinated.”

Kane’s involvement with the Red Cross started when he was the youth swimming program. But his inspiration started with his mother who was a “Red Cross Gray Lady,” otherwise known as the Red Cross Hospital and Recreation Corps. These female volunteers would provide comfort, recreation, and assistance in military hospitals to people in the service. In the 1960s the program was merged with other Red Cross volunteer programs. Then, following the 9/11 attack on the U.S., he became an active Red Cross volunteer. Over the years, he has served as a Red Cross Disaster Services Vice-Chair for San Francisco and External Relations Coordinator in Alameda, among other volunteer roles.

Kane’s commitment and dedication to the Red Cross earned him the Bay Area Chapter Clara Barton Award for Meritorious Leadership. This is the highest honor for chapter volunteers, highlighting their significant contributions through various leadership positions held during their Red Cross tenure. Last year, Kane also received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award with several other Red Crossers, recognizing their commitment to volunteerism. 

“One doesn’t take this type of award lightly.  I walk away knowing that all my hours committed to the mission of the Red Cross were appreciated and made a difference,” he said. His passion for the Red Cross now extends to his grandchildren who are both Red Cross volunteers.

“Volunteering with the Red Cross provides a great deal of satisfaction knowing you are helping others at one of the worst times in their lives.  It’s up to you to determine how much time you want to spend and how you want to do it,” Kane said. “The Red Cross has many different positions and all you need to do is select the one that best fits your interest and passion.”  

Thank you for your time, dedication and service to the Red Cross mission, Kane!