SAN FRANCISCO — National Volunteer Week is being observed from April 19 through April 25 and the American Red Cross Northern California Coastal Region would like to honor those who are the heart of the organization ─ the volunteers who contribute their time and talent to make the Red Cross mission possible every day.

Generations of American Red Cross volunteers have helped and supported people in need since the organization was founded in 1881 and new data recently revealed a national snapshot of volunteerism across generations. From Gen Z to the Silent Generation, people of all ages make up the Red Cross’ 325,000-plus volunteers — which have increased nearly 25% over the past three years as part of a nationwide post-pandemic rebound.

OUR LOCAL VOLUNTEERS National Red Cross Mass Care Chief and Regional Public Affairs volunteer Marianna Thomas, a San Francisco resident and baby boomer, represents a generation that often serves as the backbone of essential Red Cross roles. As a seasoned professional and volunteer, Marianna values the opportunity to collaborate across generations, learning alongside volunteers of all ages. One example is Sameira Sharma, a high school senior from the Tri-Valley area who serves as a Youth Executive Board member, Digital Communications volunteer, and currently leads the social media team, overseeing volunteers like Marianna.

“It says a lot about Red Cross that a high school senior was entrusted with a leadership role. After watching Sameira confidently lead a social media tech skills session with slides and a how-to demo, it was clear she earned her position,” said Marianna. While our volunteers span every generation, they work side-by-side to advance the Red Cross mission. We are proud to celebrate the volunteers who make up nearly 90% of our workforce.

Throughout the spring and summer, the Northern California Coastal Region will continue this celebration of service by hosting Volunteer Recognition events across the region, bringing together volunteers of all ages to recognize their impact and dedication.

JOIN US As the Red Cross honors and recognizes our volunteers during National Volunteer Week, we invite people to join a team working together to make an impact.

“Generations of American Red Cross volunteers have come together to deliver care and hope in the face of emergencies,” said Lauren Baker, Interim Regional Volunteer Services Officer. “Join this generation of volunteers working together to bring comfort and relief to people in need.”

Right now there is a critical need for people to fill these roles. Free training will be provided.

• DISASTER ACTION TEAM The vast majority of emergencies we respond to are local, personal crises like home fires. These events may not make headlines, but they shatter lives. For more than 60 years, our Disaster Action Team volunteers have been ready 24/7, 365 days a year — to deliver immediate relief, emotional support and long-term recovery resources. When disaster strikes, we make sure families never face it alone.
• SHELTER RESIDENT TRANSITION ASSOCIATE These caseworkers work with shelter residents during a larger disaster response to help them create an action plan so that they can transition from the shelter to a more sustainable living solution, helping to jumpstart their recovery.
• BLOOD DONOR AMBASSADOR If you enjoy connecting with people, consider becoming a Blood Donor Ambassador. Ambassadors help ensure every blood donor has a positive experience from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. You’ll greet donors, assist with registration, answer questions, share helpful information and offer refreshments after their donation. Whether you volunteer regularly or occasionally is up to you.
• BLOOD TRANSPORTATION SPECIALISTS This vital role brings lifesaving blood and blood products to local hospitals within their region. They choose when they want to help with either scheduled shifts or our on-demand opportunities. As an on-demand volunteer you can choose shifts that fit your schedule. You will receive real-time alerts when hospitals have a critical request for urgently needed blood and be on your way to the distribution site within 30-120 minutes. Your time driving could be the difference in helping save a patient’s life.

Your time and talents can make an impact. Find the best way for you to get involved by visiting redcross.org/volunteer.

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.