By David Strom
Every Red Cross volunteer has a unique background and reason for volunteering. Recent University of Missouri graduate CJ Nesser is no exception and is proof of the younger generation’s desire to take on heavy levels of responsibility and make a difference in the world around them.
As a senior at Mizzou, Nesser helped run the 2023 Homecoming Blood Drive, one of the community’s biggest events of the year. This event captured his heart, sparked his interest in community service, and launched his journey with the Red Cross. While working towards his bachelor’s degree in business administration, he took things to the next level by taking a communications internship with the Red Cross. “I wanted to give back and fight for something bigger than myself,” he said.
During this internship, Nesser helped develop social media content and strategies. But his role went beyond sitting at a desk–Nesser was out in the community giving speeches and taking photos and videos. He also helped organize and promote a disaster relief campaign with the college marketing club to raise awareness, money, and blood donations for the Red Cross. “During that time, tornadoes swept through our region leaving many without homes,” he said. These disasters put extra strain on the blood and other relief supplies. “Fortunately, we were able to break the record from last year that collected 4,959 units of blood and helped save 14,877 lives.”
Recent University of Missouri graduate and Red Cross Volunteer, CJ Nesser.
For Nesser, one senior year internship with the Red Cross wasn’t enough. He also interned with the Government Liaison in Jefferson City to assist with government relations by meeting with lawmakers and other government officials to advocate for various aspects of the Red Cross mission. Two moments stand out from this experience. First was his effort as part of the team to have Governor Parson proclaim March as Red Cross Month. Second was running a blood drive in the state capital.
“Getting to see those who were elected to represent different parts of our state and give back to their community by donating their blood was an inspiring experience,” he said. “This made me want to pursue a career in public affairs and public service.”
Nesser believes an internship is a phenomenal way to get involved with and introduced to the Red Cross. “Many Mizzou students only know of the Red Cross from events such as our homecoming and the Greek Week Blood Drives. Unless you are on the steering committees, you do not learn much about the planning and organizational effort that goes into running these events.” His efforts even culminated in getting airtime on local TV stations representing the Red Cross. “It was a dream I always wanted to do and an honor too,” he said.
After graduation, Nesser joined Central and Northern Missouri chapter's Board of Advisors, where he continues to help fundraising and augment marketing efforts. Through these leadership positions, Nesser continues to take his volunteerism to the next level.
“I got to see that people across the state, and even the country, support the idea of helping each other, which is what the Red Cross stands for,” he said. “Our community is made up of people from all different backgrounds who come together to continue to serve their neighbors.” Giving back to his community gives Nesser a feeling of joy not easily replicable elsewhere. “I urge all students, recent graduates, and those who have been in the workforce for years to consider donating your blood, money, and time to help further the Red Cross’ mission,” he said.
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