Contacto de Prensa:
669-209-5266
nccrpublicaffairs@redcross.org
Briana Taylor, Visa and Visa Foundation to be recognized for outstanding contributions
at California Academy of Sciences
SAN FRANCISCO (November 15, 2022) — Now in its 28th year, the Red Cross Gala is a volunteer-led fundraiser dedicated to recognizing local heroes and supporting the Red Cross mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Scheduled for Friday, March 24, 2023 at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Park, the Gala’s celebration of the courage and compassion of the 2022 Honorees will be the highlight of the evening.
“It’s an honor to be Co-Chair of this incredible event,” said Kenzie Ferguson, who is serving alongside fellow Co-Chair Elizabeth J. Folger. “As a donor and board member, I am inspired by the mission of the Red Cross, the compassion of the volunteers and the ability of the Red Cross to reach people in need when it is most critical. The Gala is a big part of making the mission possible, and we’re looking forward to the best event yet.”
THE HONOREES The Red Cross of the Bay Area is pleased to announce its 2022 Red Cross Gala Honorees: Long-time volunteer and board member, Briana Taylor, and Corporate Partner, Visa and Visa Foundation.
During the black-tie event, the Red Cross will present volunteer Briana Taylor with the 2022 Red Cross Humanitarian Volunteer of the Year Award. Supporting people is at the heart of what Briana does. She has been a volunteer with the Red Cross for more than 17 years, having joined during the organization’s response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Since her start with the Red Cross, Briana has been wholeheartedly committed to the mission, and is a steadfast supporter and advocate for her fellow volunteers.
"The Red Cross is not an organization, it's people,” she said. "When you're in a tragic situation, and you see how volunteers, how community members rally, it gives you so much hope in the good in the world. Hope in a time when you need it the most.”
Read Briana’s full bio here.
The Red Cross will also recognize Visa and Visa Foundation as the 2022 Red Cross Philanthropic Company of the Year.
“Visa and Visa Foundation are proud to be long-standing partners supporting the mission of the American Red Cross, and to be honored as their Philanthropic Company of the Year,” said Oliver Jenkyn, group president and president of North America, Visa. “Through our global business, employees and philanthropy, Visa and Visa Foundation support the Red Cross’ efforts to help communities in need as they recover from natural disasters.”
A committed partner for more than 33 years, Visa and Visa Foundation share the Red Cross mission to ensure people impacted by disasters receive the care, comfort and resources they deserve. Visa and Visa Foundation and its employees turn compassion into action, having generously donated more than $26 million in support of Red Cross responses to disasters and crises across the world.
In addition, Visa employees regularly give their time and energy as volunteers, providing hands-on assistance with programs such as Sound the Alarm smoke alarm installation and home fire safety events and personal hygiene kit builds, as well as Missing Maps and MapSwipe initiatives, blood drives, and other programs. Visa team members are also active as Red Cross board and committee members.
SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS Hosted by Co-Chairs Kenzie Ferguson and Elizabeth J. Folger, the 2023 Red Cross Gala will feature a cocktail reception, a three-course dinner curated by Componere Fine Catering, a live auction and entertainment. Since its inception, this fundraiser’s purpose has remained steadfast: to celebrate and sustain the lifesaving programs and services of the Red Cross. Proceeds will support services where it’s needed the most, including disaster relief. The Gala is made possible by Gold Sponsor Kathryn W. Holmes, Silver Sponsor Lowe’s, and Bronze Sponsors Kaiser Permanente, State Farm and Stephanie Block, and Honorary Committee Member, Former San Francisco Giants pitcher Dave Dravecky.
To view our full list of Gala committee members and additional event details, please visit redcross.org/redcrossgalasf.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/bayarea or find us on Facebook and Twitter.
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