The power of the American Red Cross relies on your generous donations and the tireless efforts of our volunteers, employees, board members and community partners — dedicated people who will continue to make a difference for thousands of lives in 2025 and beyond. As we close out 2024, we wish you a safe and healthy holiday season, and invite you to review some of our region's proudest and most memorable moments.
The power of the American Red Cross relies on your generous donations and the tireless efforts of our volunteers, employees, board members and community partners — dedicated people who will continue to make a difference for thousands of lives in 2025 and beyond. As we close out 2024, we wish you a safe and healthy holiday season, and invite you to review some of our region's proudest and most memorable moments.
Video: Maui native runs Chicago Marathon for team Red Cross following wildfires
Each year, thousands of runners come to Chicago to run the marathon. In 2023, 165 runners were on Team Red Cross, including Nate Kahaialii, a Lahaina, Maui native who persevered in running even after the devastating wildfires destroyed his home in August.
News Story: Roger Wolf - A Lifesaving Rescue Story
When Roger collapsed during a meeting, Mark and Dan’s quick actions with an AED and CPR saved his life. Mark, filling in for a coworker, and Dan, on his last day with the group, were in the right place at the right time, making a life-saving difference.
Video: 10th Annual Great Chicago Blood Drive sets new record for units collected
The 10th annual Great Chicago Blood Drive, which took place at 7 different locations over two days, collected a record 2,803 units of lifesaving blood. This was especially crucial as the blood drive occurred during an emergency blood shortage.
Video: The Red Cross role with military recruits and their families
Here is a firsthand look inside the Military Entrance Processing Station, where Illinois Region Red Cross volunteers support recruits who have recently taken the oath of enlistment and are preparing for basic training all over the country.
News Story: Red Cross becomes guiding angels for family after home fire
When Gabriela’s apartment building caught fire, she lost everything. Thanks to Red Cross volunteers, she and her daughter found shelter, support, and care. Volunteers helped them rebuild their lives and find hope after the devastating loss.
News Story: Red Cross volunteers respond to severe storms across Illinois Region
In July, severe storms hit, causing flooding, power outages, and damage to many communities. Red Cross volunteers responded swiftly, providing essential resources like food, water, emergency supplies, shelter, and critical support to those affected.
Video: Illinois Region volunteers deploy to disasters nationwide
Thank you to the many volunteers from across the region who deployed to wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, and other disasters across the country. Jim Funk and Emily Wissmiller are two of those amazing volunteers, who deployed following Hurricane Milton.
Personal Story: Beloved daughter, wife, and mother honored with blood drive
Lucy, a beloved wife and new mother, passed away from a rare pregnancy complication 10 days after giving birth to her daughter, Daisy. A blood drive was created in her honor to celebrate her life and help ensure others have access to life-saving blood.
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Video: Sheehan Family keeps Christian’s spirit alive by making the community safer
After losing their son Christian in a 2016 house fire, the Sheehan family created the Smoke Alarm Blitz in his memory. Partnering with the Red Cross, they’ve installed 1,000 smoke alarms in Champaign homes, turning their tragedy into a lifesaving mission.
Personal Story: Grateful for the lifesaving gift of donated blood
McKinley, diagnosed with sickle cell at six weeks old, has relied on countless blood transfusions to manage pain and complications. His mother, Angelica, works to inspire others to give acknowledging that blood donation is a lifesaving gift.
Personal Story: Family honors Isa Lopez with annual blood drive to support patients in need
Isa Lopez, a vibrant young woman who battled T-cell lymphoma, needed numerous blood transfusions. Her family faced shortages, but kind gestures from donors inspired them to honor Isa with an annual blood drive, helping others in similar need.
News Story: Illinois Volunteer celebrates 60 years of service with the Red Cross
Claudia Blackman has volunteered with the Red Cross for 60 years in roles like Water Safety Instructor, CPR/First Aid teacher, and disaster responder. Her dedication has touched many lives, earning her awards and making a lasting impact in the community.