As a high schooler, Tyler could be doing a lot of things with his time. Why serve with the American Red Cross? And why serve specifically with the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces? We thought we’d just ask him – what does this service mean to you?

“I’m able to help those in the armed services that sacrifice so much for me and everyone else in this country,” Tyler says. “I want to be able to give back to them and show them that I care and appreciate all they do.”

Something you may not know is that Tyler and other volunteers with the Red Cross serve the service members and their families in a variety of ways. Close to home we do work to support them during both deployments and emergencies. We also provide home comforts and critical services on bases and in military hospitals around the world, reminding service members of home when they are very far away.

But the work doesn’t stop when service ends. We work with veterans and veterans facilities throughout Michigan and the nation – and around the world. Each year, the Red Cross provides nearly 550,000 services to service members, veterans and their families by leveraging our worldwide network of volunteers.

Tyler says he chose to work with the Red Cross because he wants to be there for service members and their families at all points of service.

“The Red Cross provides a ton of services and access to resources,” Tyler says.

As a young person, Tyler has a lot of options. But he says people of his age – and all ages – should consider volunteering with the Red Cross.

“It’s fun and you are able to give back,” Tyler says. “It is really fulfilling and special to interact with these people and help them in whatever way I can.”

We are thankful to Tyler and all of those who are willing to give back. If you are looking for an opportunity to volunteer, we welcome you! Visit redcross.org/volunteer for more information.