Mary Jane Martinez and former Governor Bob Martinez are pictured at the traditional Red Cross Angels Silver Coffee in 2019. The event was not held this year due to the pandemic, but the Angels led a virtual fundraising campaign in its place.
Story submitted by the Red Cross Angels of Tampa Bay
The Red Cross Angels, a women’s support organization for the Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Red Cross, presented its highest award recently to former Gov. Bob Martinez and Mary Jane Martinez.
It was the first time in 13 years that the Halo Award has been given by the 40-year-old volunteer auxiliary, founded by Beverly Austin, who remains an active member. The award recognizes an individual for outstanding volunteer contributions and dedication to the Red Cross of Tampa Bay, including community outreach, volunteer involvement and financial support.
The Martinezes served as the honorary chairs of the Angels Spring Fundraising Campaign, which due to the pandemic, replaced the traditional Silver Coffee open house event. The spring campaign raised almost $81,000 for the benefit the Red Cross Services to the Armed Forces program that aids military members and their families.
The award was presented Monday, Sept. 13, during an online meeting of the organization. Other awards and recipients announced at the event were:
Anne Cloar is the 2021-22 president of the organization. For information about joining, call the Tampa Bay Chapter office at 813- 348-4820.