Red Cross volunteers touch lives every day. They are as diverse as the people receiving Red Cross services. It takes all kinds of people to make this organization work – different ages, different backgrounds, and different skills. Our needs are often specific, based on current incidents and levels of needed support, and require an ongoing commitment. Most volunteers work for a few hours per week, but we’ll do our best to help you get involved!

• Disaster Response – The largest percentage of our volunteers work on a Disaster Action Team where they help people affected by disasters ranging from home fires to hurricanes by providing food, shelter, essential relief supplies, and comfort and hope.  
• Blood Services – Volunteers coordinate blood drives and serve as blood drive volunteers to register blood donors and staff the refreshment area.
  
• Preparedness Education – Volunteers teach families, classroom groups, organizations, and corporations how to “Be Red Cross Ready” for disasters and emergencies.
• Service to the Armed Forces – The Red Cross has supported our men and women serving in the military for more than 100 years. Volunteers connect families and veterans with resources to respond to emergencies, teach coping and resilience skills, and provide recreational and therapeutic support at local military hospitals.
• International Humanitarian Services – Volunteers coordinate fundraising for measles vaccines, educate youth about the Geneva Conventions, and provide international tracing and messaging.
• Fundraising – Volunteers make it financially possible for the Red Cross to deliver its lifesaving services. The Red Cross relies on volunteers and the generosity of the American public.
• Leadership – Volunteers serve on the American Red Cross of the National Capital & Greater Chesapeake Region Board of Directors, local leadership councils, and other decision-making committees, manage programs, and chair activities.