Since its founding, the American Red Cross has supported members of the military and their families. Established by Clara Barton in 1881, the organization was inspired in part by her work caring for wounded soldiers during the Civil War. More than 140 years later, that commitment continues through the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces program, which provides support, comfort and connection to service members around the world.

In honor of Veterans Day, the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri supported various community events celebrating military service and sacrifice.

Kansas City Campus employees and Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) volunteers collected candy and signed cards to show appreciation and support for active-duty military members.

Organized by Red Cross volunteer and Input Corrections Operation clerk, Janice Bell, participants signed more than 500 thank-you cards. Through their generosity and heartfelt messages, they reminded service members that their sacrifices matter and that their community appreciates their dedication and service.

For Janice, service has shaped both her federal career and her work in the community. Serving others means more than just doing her job. From federal service to disaster response, she continues to help others and make a difference in the lives of those around her.

"I am happy to give back," Janice said. "After I got approval from my manager, we ordered the cards and distributed them to employees."

For Edi Webb, who grew up in a military family, the event held special meaning.

"My father served in the military for more than 20 years," she said. "To give back and send a thank-you to our service members meant the world to me. My father would have been super happy that I helped with this event."

Army Staff Sgt. Robert Jones thanked volunteers and campus employees for their generosity.

"We delivered the gifts to the Fort Leavenworth welfare and recreation operation. Everyone was excited. They loved the cards and candy," he said.

Robert added that the cards and candy would reach service members both in the Kansas City area and overseas, extending messages of gratitude far beyond the local community.

In Leavenworth, Kansas, Red Cross staff and volunteers also participated in the city's annual Veterans Day Parade. Walking alongside veterans, military families and community organizations, they proudly represented the Red Cross's longstanding commitment to those who serve. The parade offered another opportunity to honor local veterans, celebrate their sacrifices and raise awareness of the support Red Cross volunteers provide year-round to active-duty service members, veterans and their families.

The local community turnout served as a powerful reminder of the deep connection between the Red Cross and the military community, a relationship that has endured since the organization's earliest days.