The American Red Cross is very special to Kalamazoo County Sheriff Richard Fuller III and not just because he served on its Southwest Chapter board of directors. In his 38 years in law enforcement, Fuller has seen how the Red Cross helps those in need every day.

“No other organization has the touch and reach of the American Red Cross. It is there for those in need of blood, victims of fires, helping overseas and during disasters,” Fuller said. “We are fortunate in this country to have this type of ‘umbrella’ organization.”

Fuller recalls loved ones who have needed blood over the years, including his aunt who was in a serious car crash. Fuller himself has been an avid blood donor over the years. He said he has always been impressed with what Red Cross volunteers do and he tries to spread the word whenever he can.

“There is no shortage of pull on people’s attention spans today. That’s why I want to constantly tell people and make sure they hear the good that the Red Cross does to help families every day,” Fuller said.

Fuller has served as sheriff in Kalamazoo County since 2008. In January, Fuller become president of the Michigan Sheriff’s Association.

During his distinguished career, Fuller said he has witnessed how Red Cross volunteers work in their communities. The Michigan region has been a leader in coordinating volunteer deployments where the need is most, whether it is local or national.

“Sometimes people might see something and say, ‘why is the Red Cross helping there, but not here?’ The Red Cross is here and there, in our communities, every day, and we have to share that,” Fuller said.

While the sheriff is not ready to retire just yet, when that time comes, he and his wife want to join the ranks of the Red Cross as volunteers.

“It is such a gift to you personally that you helped relieve someone else’s pain,” Fuller said. “Every little bit counts.”