DURANGO, Colo. (June 10, 2026) — Interested in getting involved with the Red Cross or just want to learn how to be better prepared for an emergency? The American Red Cross of Western Colorado has an upcoming opportunity to learn more through an open house and Be Red Cross Ready training session in Durango on June 23 and 24.

Whether you're already a volunteer or simply curious about how the Red Cross supports western Colorado communities, these events will offer an opportunity to look inside the Red Cross mission, learn about available opportunities and know what you can do in order to be ready to respond to a disaster.

"Volunteers power the Red Cross mission across Colorado and the world," said Christie Caster, executive director of the Red Cross of Western Colorado. "About 90 percent of the American Red Cross workforce is volunteer-based, and we are always looking for those in our communities across southwestern Colorado that want to make a difference where they live and work."

Red Cross Open House in Durango

Looking for a way to give back to your neighbors and local community? The Red Cross of Western Colorado invites you to an open house at its Durango office (700 Main Ave., Durango) on Tuesday, June 23, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to learn more about the Red Cross and volunteering.

Everyone is welcome to attend! Bring a friend, coworker, family member or anyone interested in supporting their community through volunteer service. Snacks and refreshments will be provided and you do not have to stay for the entire duration of the open house.

This open house is a chance to connect with local Red Cross staff and volunteers, learn about upcoming opportunities, and discover how you can make a meaningful impact right here in western Colorado. You'll also be able to meet the Red Cross of Western Colorado team:

• Christie Caster – Executive Director
• Sean Killoy – Community Disaster Program Manager, Southwestern Colorado
• Josh Stewart – Volunteer Experience Manager

The Red Cross of Western Colorado is currently recruiting local volunteers for:

• Shelter Team Members — Help provide safe shelter, comfort, and support to families during disasters and emergencies. You can choose to stay local and volunteer in evacuation shelters in your community, deploy to large disasters both inside and outside of Colorado — or both!
• Disaster Action Team — Respond to local disasters such as home fires by helping families with immediate needs, comfort items and recovery support.

No prior experience is necessary to volunteer and a number of volunteer positions are available outside of shelter and disaster response, as well. Training is provided to all volunteers and there are opportunities to fit around your schedule, interests and skill sets.

Be Red Cross Ready Training

Floods and wildfires are becoming more frequent and can be devastating to our loved ones, homes and communities across southwestern Colorado. However, you don't have to figure out preparedness on your own: the Red Cross is hosting its Be Red Cross Ready training on Wednesday, June 24, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Durango Library – Community Room 2 (1900 E. 3rd Ave., Durango).

This free disaster preparedness training will help build confidence by learning simple steps you can take now to help prepare and protect your family.

For any questions about either event or to RSVP, please contact Josh Stewart at joshua.stewart@redcross.org. Additional information on how to volunteer with the Red Cross of Western Colorado can be found on the Red Cross website.

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.