By: Dawn Anderson, Communications/Public Affairs Volunteer

At just 15 years old, John Leopard has already dedicated a decade of his life to volunteering with the American Red Cross. His journey began when he started accompanying his grandmother, Patti Leopard, who worked for the Red Cross in the East Central Georgia chapter. John's first volunteer experience was helping his father install a safe at the local Red Cross office when he was only 5 years old. Over the years, his involvement has steadily grown.

When John was 10, he recalled feeling helpless at an evacuation shelter for Charleston, South Carolina, residents.  “I could not do much, but I was there and trying to help,” he said. However, that feeling of helplessness has since been replaced with quiet confidence as he has undergone volunteer training and assisted with various shelter functions. Now, during school breaks, John can often be found at the local Red Cross office preparing for events, answering phone calls, greeting guests and helping those in need. As his grandmother ages, John is there to assist her with more strenuous tasks and can always be relied upon to get things done.

John's experiences proved invaluable in late September of 2024 when Hurricane Helene struck the Augusta area. Despite damage to their own home, John and his grandmother cleared a path through their neighborhood to reach the Red Cross shelter, where they served as Shelter Managers. John took the lead in getting the mobile shower operational, setting up cots, and guiding volunteers who came to the shelter between rescue shifts. Volunteers from across the country needed basic shelter and necessities to help those affected by the storm. John ensured everything was operational and spent the next ten days serving others, including his classmates. His work was appreciated, especially by the volunteers, who commented in a thank you note left behind, “You make life easier.”

John's efforts did not go unnoticed. He was recognized at the 2025 Red Cross Awards Celebration in Augusta, Georgia, where he received the Youth and Young Adult Leadership Award for recognition of statewide service. He also earned the Youth and Young Adult Award. "It felt great to be appreciated. Everyone at the Red Cross is so accepting, even though I am younger. I love being part of the team," John said.

When John is not volunteering, he is involved in school theater and keeping up with his classwork. Although he is unsure about his future major, his work with the Red Cross has ignited a passion for service. He encourages others to volunteer, saying, "You can make a difference and see the difference. Volunteering with the Red Cross means we can work together to help others."

How to Volunteer

Volunteers make up around 90% of the Red Cross workforce. People like John are how the organization prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies. If you are interested in volunteering your time and talent to make a real difference, visit www.redcross.org/volunteer.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.