For Julia Wood, caring for others has always been more than a profession — it’s a lifelong calling. 

After years of serving her community in Eagle, Idaho, as a nurse, Julia now continues that commitment through her volunteer work with the American Red Cross, recently stepping into a new volunteer leadership role supporting disaster response efforts. 

During emergencies, Julia says her background in health care has helped shape the way she connects with people facing some of their most difficult moments.

“Being a nurse has taught me how to stay calm and focused during difficult situations while still leading with compassion,” Julia said. “Sometimes people just need someone who truly cares and helps them feel seen and supported.”

Whether responding after a disaster or helping clients navigate uncertainty, Julia says listening and providing reassurance can often make a lasting impact. 

“In emergencies, people are often scared, overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next,” she said. “My nursing background has helped me learn how to listen, assess needs quickly and provide reassurance during stressful moments.” 

Beyond disaster response, Julia has also helped strengthen connections between the Red Cross mission and Latino communities in Idaho. Through outreach efforts with Hispanic-focused media groups and interviews conducted in Spanish, she has worked to help more families access information, resources and opportunities to get involved with the Red Cross. 

Now stepping into a volunteer leadership position, Julia says she is looking forward to supporting and encouraging fellow volunteers while continuing to grow within the Red Cross mission. 

“This new position means a lot to me because it gives me the opportunity to grow while continuing to serve others in a bigger way,” Julia said. “What excites me most is being able to mentor, encourage teamwork and help make a difference not only for the clients we serve, but also for the volunteers beside me.” 

Julia says many of the same lessons she learned through nursing continue to guide her disaster response work today — especially the importance of compassion and emotional support during times of crisis. 

“During a disaster or emergency, meeting someone’s emotional needs can be just as important as meeting physical ones,” she said. “Being able to provide comfort, support and hope during uncertain times is one of the most meaningful parts of both nursing and volunteering for me.”

Rather than one defining experience, Julia says it’s the many moments of connection and compassion she’s witnessed through both nursing and Red Cross service that continue to inspire her. 

“Seeing someone go from feeling overwhelmed and uncertain to feeling supported and hopeful reminds me why I serve."