By Lisa Kaplan Gordon, American Red Cross Public Affairs

The American Red Cross rescued me when I was desperate to find purpose in my life. It’s a sad story with a happy ending.

When I retired from a 45-year journalism career in 2021, I had written about a million words and vowed never to write another — not even “bananas” on a shopping list.

My new career was leisure. And when my husband and I moved from suburban Virginia to a country club in Boca Raton, FL, I worked tirelessly at my new job.

I joined tennis and golf leagues, found intermediate mahjong games — pick and throw, never throw and pick — and raised my alto voice in the club’s chorus that met every other week.

I had a blast, until I didn’t.

After two years, I had plenty to do but nothing of substance. I needed to help someone, somewhere; heal the world in some small or large way.

So, I looked for purpose with the same determination and gusto that I did everything else.

I volunteered at the local hospital, first wheeling newborns to and from their mothers, then guiding hospital visitors from the entrance to the elevators, and finally, delivering snacks and warm blankets to patients in the infusion center.

Any one of those jobs would have satisfied some volunteer, but not me. I wanted to hold people in my arms and make their pain go away. I wanted to perform surgery, not spin as just another cog in the hospital wheel.

I wanted to be Santa Claus, not just another helper elf.

Then, I found the Red Cross.

When it comes to volunteering, the Red Cross has something for everyone.

First, I trained as a public affairs liaison between the Red Cross and the press corps eager for information during a disaster. Then, I trained as a Disaster Action Team (DAT) responder who assesses damage after home fires and assists the affected individuals.

But, as luck would have it, my best and highest use for the Red Cross is as a writer.

Did I mention I’m an adrenaline junkie?

During national disaster relief operations, I write stories — on deadline — about hurricanes, survivors and volunteers. I get it fast and I get it right. I use the talents I’ve honed most of my life and find purpose and excitement in the work. Who knew?

Between national disasters, I put on my Red Cross vest and hat and help people on the worst day of their lives. I give out hugs, comfort kits and financial assistance for immediate needs like food and temporary lodging as they stitch their lives back together.

April is National Volunteer Month when the Red Cross celebrates and shows appreciation for its volunteer workforce. But every month, I appreciate the Red Cross for helping me find passion and purpose in the final chapters of my life.

Help us celebrate them by honoring a volunteer and making a donation in their name, telling an inspiring story or starting your own fundraiser! Learn more here: https://rdcrss.org/429NC5B.