By Aleesia Benkey, American Red Cross intern  

“I am so proud to be a part of the Red Cross,” shared David Engwall, American Red Cross of Orange County Board Vice Chair.

David has been on the Orange County Board of Directors since 2016, and his passion for service is contagious. He was inspired to join by a colleague and has never looked back.

David volunteers across many lines of service, beyond his time as a board member. As an active volunteer in the Home Fire Campaign’s Sound the Alarm program, David has personally installed over 100 free smoke alarms to help prevent home fire deaths and injuries.

Knowing that his service has saved the lives and homes of individuals in his community, David shares what this impact means to him. “It was a touching moment, knowing that my volunteer service saved someone,” said David. “It is always heartwarming to see our initiatives in action and knowing that I am making a difference.”

David is often the first to show up and last to leave, always inspiring others with his commitment to the Red Cross mission. Throughout his time at the Red Cross, David has been an advocate for blood donations while making time to donate himself. He recently chaired a Biomedical Services Board Committee, growing awareness and engagement of the board regarding blood donations and blood collection in the area.

“When I found out about the urgent need for blood, I prioritized the importance of donating with my fellow board members and volunteers,” said David. “We were overwhelmed with support; I get tears in my eyes thinking about how many people were willing to donate during a time of need.”

As a board member, David has connected with his community and elected officials in sharing the work of the Red Cross. He loves working with fellow board members to support his community but wants to put the spotlight on the volunteers.

“The best part of the Red Cross is the volunteers. The front-line volunteers that go out on a moment’s notice, to support shelters, fires and all kinds of disasters are my inspiration,” said David. “It is an amazing network of people working towards the same goal.”

David hopes to encourage others to get involved with the Red Cross. “Being able to help someone on their worst day, being a light for someone in need is such a great feeling.”

For more information on David and the Red Cross of Orange County Board of Directors, please click here.