Story by Rachel Beaird, Communications Volunteer

Since the American Red Cross was founded in 1881, the organization has relied on the compassion and dedication of women to bring its mission to life. For nearly 20 years, members of the Tiffany Circle have carried this legacy forward through a focused investment of time, talent and treasure.

As the organization’s most successful individual annual fundraising initiative, Tiffany Circle has raised more than $225 million to support all Red Cross lines of service and the work they do. Tiffany Circle members from across the country each make a threshold contribution annually to support the Red Cross. Find out more here.

Aside from financial donations, these women support the organization through hands-on involvement in disaster response programs, blood collection, aid for military families, health education, and more.

In Central Florida, two events brough Tiffany Circle members together for a day to celebrate annual accomplishments and learn more about the humanitarian mission.

The Southwest Florida Tiffany Circle gathered for Emergency Management Day in Sarasota on April 10.

The day began with a tour of the Sarasota County Emergency Operations Center, followed by interactive demonstrations at the Red Cross office showcasing the vital work of volunteers. This included Disaster Action Team responses to home fires, the Home Fire Campaign smoke alarm installation program, a mock emergency shelter with feeding operations, and advanced disaster response technologies.

The group also enjoyed lunch hosted by Bank of America Private Bank and Lisa Gallagher.

“This was a true team effort by staff, volunteers, and board members of the Southwest Florida Chapter,” said Robb Resler, Regional Philanthropy Partner and Tiffany Circle Staff Liaison.

“It was a stellar example of our shared commitment to the Red Cross mission – preventing and alleviating human suffering.”

On April 16, the Tampa Bay Tiffany Circle held its annual luncheon at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, hosted by Fifth Third Bank and Lea Levines.

The event highlighted the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, which helps save lives by installing free smoke alarms in homes in neighborhoods at high-risk for fires.

During the luncheon, South St. Petersburg City Councilman Cory Givens shared his experience participating in an event earlier this spring at the Child’s Park neighborhood of Pinellas County. A strong advocate for community collaboration, Councilman Givens praised the Red Cross life-saving work. Attendees at the luncheon also received the news that the Red Cross reached a milestone moment with the program – over 2,100 lives saved.