Written by Stephanie Wesseling, American Red Cross Public Affairs

Born and raised in the Canary Islands, Spain, Isabel Lemus never imagined how a vacation to Miami would change the course of her life. When she flew into the city in November 1989, she was struck by the beauty of its water and greenery. A six-month vacation visa turned into twelve as Isabel quickly fell in love with not just the city but also her future husband, whom she met before the end of the year. 

Though she spoke only basic English, Isabel’s determination led her to a local high school to learn English as a second language. Her drive to help others became a central theme in her life. She worked as a teacher’s assistant in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools system and later joined the administration department at Baptist Health, where she led patient and guest services.

It wasn’t until December 2020, after retiring at age 53, that Isabel found time to fulfill a lifelong dream—volunteering for the Red Cross. “I knew about the Red Cross from seeing the organization in Spain,” Isabel recalls. “I always said that one day, when I had time, I would volunteer.”

In 2021, she made good on that promise and joined the Greater Miami & The Keys Chapter of the American Red Cross, where she has been actively involved in youth preparedness programs ever since. Isabel teaches children how to stay safe during emergencies, from home fires to hurricanes. She especially enjoys teaching younger children. “They learn because they have so much fun in the class,” Isabel says. “I tell them that I’m getting old, and they need to help me. They start paying attention and enjoy the class because they want to help me.”

Isabel emphasizes that her goal is to teach children not to be afraid in emergencies. “They learn first not to get nervous or freeze because they will know what to say and what to do.”

Isabel also teaches disaster preparedness to adults through a program called Be Red Cross Ready, where she stresses the importance of knowing how to respond in emergency situations. “Knowledge is power,” she explains. “Everyone cooks. Everyone can forget a pot on the stove. Everyone in South Florida knows about hurricanes. They need to remember what to do if something happens.”

One of Isabel’s unique contributions is her ability to teach these classes in both English and Spanish. She once taught a preparedness class to 70 middle school students, switching seamlessly between languages to ensure that both English and Spanish-speaking students could follow along. Her ability to connect with the Latino community doesn’t end there—Isabel also participates in the Sound the Alarm Campaign, installing free smoke alarms in at-risk communities. “When I knock on a door, I ask if they prefer me to speak in English or Spanish. You can see the relief on their faces when I speak their language.”

Isabel’s commitment to service is deeply rooted in her cultural upbringing. Raised by her grandmothers, she watched as her family cared for each other, preparing meals and bringing groceries to their elders every Sunday. She carried this tradition into her own adult life, taking care of her parents and grandparents and later, serving her community through her church.

Reflecting on her heritage, Isabel believes it’s crucial for the Red Cross to have well-trained, Spanish-speaking volunteers. She encourages other Latino and Hispanic community members to get involved. “Volunteering for the Red Cross will bring a sense of fulfillment because you’re doing something for others for nothing in return.”

Our lifesaving mission wouldn’t be possible without volunteers like Isabel. This holiday season, give the gift of time and join us to turn your compassion into action. Visit redcross.org/SFLvolunteer to get involved and help those in need.