As the American Red Cross prepares to support communities potentially impacted by Hurricane
Isaias, a dedicated volunteer from Deerfield, Illinois, is answering the call to help. Trisha Rappaport, a volunteer with the American Red Cross of Illinois, Greater Chicago Chapter, is deploying to Florida ahead of the storm, joining Red Cross disaster responders preparing to provide critical assistance to people who may beaffected. 

For Trisha, volunteering is more than something she does in her spare time. It’s acommitment that has become an important part of her life. A business owner, Trisha intentionally plans her work schedule, and even her vacations, around hurricane season so she can be ready to deploy when communities need help most. Since joining the Red Cross in 2023, she has served in several critical roles, including Disaster Program Manager, Logistics Lead and Shelter Supervisor.

During Hurricane Helene, Trisha was on the front lines of the response, helping ensure families received water, tarps and essential emergency supplies. She also worked with community organizations and school districts to mobilize resources and get assistance where it was needed most.

“Being there for someone on their worst day is humbling, and I always hope that if I were in their place, someone would do the same for me,” Trisha shared. “The camaraderie among volunteers, who come from all over the country, feels like family. Together, we bring hope and comfort to those in crisis.”

 As Hurricane Isaias approaches, Trisha is once again stepping away from her daily responsibilities to help people she has never met, driven by a belief that no one should have to face a disaster alone.

How You Can Help

You can help people affected by disasters like Hurricanes, wildfires and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief or joining our team of volunteers. For more information, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS
(800-733-2767).

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.

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