During National Volunteer Month, the American Red Cross is celebrating community heroes whose daily support and hard work embody the organization’s lifesaving mission to help people in need.

Last year, 4,426 Red Cross volunteers across the region supported blood drives, assisted veterans and military families and provided food and shelter after disasters of all sizes. Nationally, volunteers represent more than 90% of the Red Cross workforce, providing comfort and relief in the face of emergencies.

“Our volunteers are the heart and soul of the Red Cross,” said Celena Roldán Sarillo, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross of Illinois. “Their support is immeasurable. Without the gift of their time and talents, we wouldn’t be able to help people in what can be their darkest hour.”

The combination of heartbreaking home fires and the worsening climate crisis is creating a critical need for disaster volunteers. Last year, the country saw an all-time high of billion-dollar disasters which forced hundreds of thousands of people out of their homes.

JOIN US ─ VOLUNTEER While volunteers of all types are needed, the Red Cross has a critical need for three specific positions. These roles are a great fit for those who are team-oriented and want to make an immediate difference. Free online training will be provided. 

·       As a Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteer, people can be a source of refuge and comfort for neighbors when they need it most. DAT team members provide emotional support, emergency financial assistance and information to help families begin to recover.

·       As a Shelter Services volunteer, people can support the day-to-day activities within an emergency shelter. This includes helping residents in different shelter areas such as reception, registration, feeding, dormitory, information or others.

·       As a Disaster Health Services volunteer, people can use their professional skills as a licensed healthcare provider to deliver hands-on care to people in shelters. Volunteers also provide additional support including health assessments, health education and much more.

Just like the people served by the Red Cross, the organization is proud its volunteers represent a wide array of cultures, backgrounds, ages, gender identities, lifestyles and beliefs. Everyone is welcome.

This Volunteer Month, the Red Cross is inviting community members to put on a red vest and join the team. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to get started today.

Home Fire Response Red Cross volunteers responded to 5 home fires in Salem, Centralia, Benton, Springfield and Mount Vernon and provided assistance to 11 people, by supplying them with basic items to meet immediate needs after a fire, and additional support in the form of health and mental health services and one-on-one support.
 
If you or someone you know needs assistance after a home fire or local disaster, please call 1-800 Red Cross.

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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