At the Red Cross we engage volunteers in a wide variety of activities. Some volunteers assist with disaster responses on a local or national level, while others teach CPR or First Aid courses. We also engage volunteers in blood drives, preparedness activities, services to the Armed Forces, financial development and facilities. Whether you enjoy working with people or being behind the scenes, the Red Cross has a volunteer opportunity for you. View a sample list of volunteer opportunities here.

The first step to becoming a Red Cross volunteer – no matter what position you’re pursuing – is to apply using our online application. The initial application will only take a few minutes. When you’ve completed it, you’ll receive an email with access information to our volunteer management system, Volunteer Connection. Log on to complete a few additional steps, including viewing an online orientation, agreeing to Red Cross policies, and initiating a background check.

Absolutely! We have a number of opportunities for both groups of youth and individuals. Visit our Youth Volunteer page to learn more and get started!

Time commitment varies greatly based on the volunteer position. Some opportunities require only a few hours a month, while others can be much more intensive. You’ll learn about time commitments as you complete the volunteer application process.

Yes, although you must first have experience with disaster response as a local Red Cross volunteer. Get started today by completing a volunteer application!

Typically, there are very few volunteers deployed internationally, and they are specially trained to manage international emergency operations. Please consider supporting your community’s local needs with the American Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region.

Yes! We are particularly in need of disaster relief volunteers who can respond in their local county. Some meetings and trainings will take place at your local chapter office, but these are often accessible through conference call or webinar.

Yes. Complete a volunteer application and select from the Biomedical Services opportunities listed in Volunteer Connection when asked to indicate your area of interest. If you have specific questions about volunteering at blood drives, please call 651-291-3360.

Please email Volunteer Services at mnrecruit@redcross.org with any questions regarding the volunteer application process or available volunteer opportunities. You can also reach us at 612-871-7676.