By Cheyenne DeGross, Red Cross communications intern

Across the U.S., the Red Cross responds to a disaster every eight minutes. This important work happens because volunteers answer the call to help those around them.

Compassionate volunteers like Jean Wanner of Washington, D.C. help make the Red Cross mission possible.

Jean’s life had changed forever when she lost a beloved family member. In the quiet that followed, she searched for a way forward. She remembered reading about the importance of finding purpose, even in the face of grief. Little by little, she found that purpose through volunteer service.

The Red Cross fit her life perfectly. Unlike a fixed weekly commitment, contributing as a Red Cross disaster response volunteer allowed her to help when she was able. Sometimes it means responding late at night. Sometimes it means stepping away from work during a break in meetings. Whenever the call came, Jean answered.

One evening, she arrived at the scene of a home fire in Washington, D.C. The family stood outside, wrapped in blankets, staring at what had once been their home. They weren't looking for answers as much as they were looking for someone who would listen.

Jean understood.

Having experienced loss herself, she knew that tragedy can leave people feeling lost and unsure of what comes next. She sat with the family, listened to their fears, and gently guided them through available resources. She couldn't erase what had happened, but she could help them take their first steps forward.

Every response teaches her something new, she says. Though Jean has served for about one year, she continues to learn from fellow volunteers, picking up new ways to support clients and navigate difficult situations. She approaches each call with humility and compassion.

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. In June, Jean was recognized as the Red Cross of the National Capital and Greater Chesapeake region's Disaster Volunteer of the Month after responding to four fires in a single month -- and 17 throughout the year. Colleagues praised her willingness to answer calls at all hours and her determination to help, even during breaks from her regular job.

But if you asked Jean why she volunteers, she would likely give a simple answer.

"You have to be able to give."

And so, when the next alert arrives, Jean will once again step forward, offering something that cannot be measured in statistics or awards: a listening ear, a helping hand, and hope when people need it most.