By Ana Gomez, American Red Cross
For Marlene Schulze, volunteering with the American Red Cross has been more than an act of service—it’s a continuation of a lifelong commitment to care. A former pediatric nurse with decades of experience in the field, Marlene brings a spirit of compassion, calm, and community to every role she fills with the Red Cross.
Originally from a military family, Marlene spent her early years moving from Oklahoma to Japan, then Texas, before her father retired in Colorado. She’s called Monument, Colorado home for nearly 30 years. Although she retired from nursing prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was during those early uncertain days of 2020 that she was inspired to begin her journey as a Red Cross volunteer.
Currently, Marlene serves as the Disaster Health Services (DHS) Lead for the Southeast Colorado Chapter. What was originally a three-month volunteer commitment to help fill a gap in leadership has turned into a nearly three-year journey—and counting. "It’s grown on me," she laughs, crediting the strong leadership of her peers like Amy Akers for creating a supportive environment that keeps her coming back. “Her camaraderie and ability to bring us all together really made this a great experience.”
In addition to her work with disaster health, Marlene is active in the Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) program. She began volunteering at the VA and now helps plan events like ice cream socials, teas, and garden beautification projects for veterans. One of her favorite initiatives is the Yard Tidy Up project, where volunteers help local veterans by cleaning and enhancing their outdoor spaces. “Seeing their faces light up—that's what makes me want to keep doing this work,” she says.
She also plays an important role in the Volunteer Action Team (VAC), helping to coordinate and improve the volunteer experience for others across the organization. Another key figure in her journey has been Crystal Schutter, whose leadership in the SAF program has encouraged Marlene to continue expanding her involvement with veterans. “Crystal has been amazing,” Marlene says. “Her encouragement has really helped me grow in this work.”
Despite the many hats she wears, Marlene remains grounded. She balances her volunteer responsibilities with time spent with her large and loving family—six children, eight grandchildren, and one on the way. She makes it work with the help of an old-school written calendar and a strong network of fellow volunteers who cover for one another when needed. “We all help each other,” she says. “If I have to be away, someone’s always willing to step in.”
For Marlene, the Red Cross has also been a place of learning and growth. From emergency preparedness drills at the airport to mass casualty and shelter training, she’s gained new skills that help her better serve others. She's even stepped into classrooms to teach kids about preparedness—something new for her, despite years of nursing education experience.
Her most memorable moments? “Definitely working with the Community Living Center in Pueblo,” she says. “Helping the veterans plant vegetables, listening to their stories, and seeing how proud they are of the hot peppers we grew—those experiences stick with you.”
While some cases have posed challenges—like working with a client who struggled with mental health—Marlene believes in the power of teamwork. “We leaned on recovery, mental health, and caseworkers. Everyone came together to find the best solution.”
At its core, Marlene’s story is about showing up for others. Whether through a comforting phone call, an emergency response, or a garden bed full of hot peppers, she has helped countless people feel seen, supported, and empowered.
“Volunteering hasn’t necessarily changed me,” she reflects, “but it’s helped me become more aware of the community, the resources we have, and what more we can do to help one another.”
Her advice to new volunteers? “Find someone you can go to for questions. Show up to the in-person events. You’ll learn so much, and you’ll find your place.”
The Red Cross, she says, is part of her rhythm now. A rhythm of giving, learning, and lifting others up. And while she won’t be at the upcoming Hero Soirée due to her son’s wedding, her presence is still deeply felt—by her team, her community, and the many lives she’s touched through her tireless service.
Did Marlene inspire you? Click here for more information on Red Cross volunteer opportunities in your community.
The American Red Cross thanks The Anschutz Foundation, Haulistic, Civitas Resources Inc., and Tallgrass Energy for making this award possible and for supporting our mission in Colorado and Wyoming.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Your time and talent can make a real difference in people’s lives. Discover the role that's right for you and join us today!
