Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
RENO, Nev. (July 8, 2023) — The American Red Cross announced today the appointment of Mary Powell to the position of National Disaster Fundraising Director, effective July 24. Powell, currently serving as the Executive Director for the Red Cross of Northern Nevada, has been recognized for her ability to build community partnerships and the impact her fundraising efforts have made for those in need.
"I am honored and excited to take on this crucial fundraising role for the Red Cross mission," said Powell, a Gardnerville native who will continue to be based in Reno. "Disasters have a devastating impact on communities, and I am passionate about helping those affected. Together with our dedicated team, I will work to ensure that the Red Cross can raise the necessary funds to meet the growing need for disaster support."
Powell joined the American Red Cross in 2020 as the Northern Nevada Red Cross executive director. She has served in leadership positions during large-scale disasters, including deployments as an Elected Official Liaison for Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Ida relief efforts. She has also been instrumental in securing donations to support local Red Cross disaster responses and to assist displaced residents in Northern and Rural Nevada. Prior to joining the Red Cross, Powell held fundraising and leadership roles with Ronald McDonald House Charities, JDRF Northern Nevada and the American Diabetes Association.
"Mary has been an exceptional leader during her time as Executive Director for the Northern Nevada Chapter," said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. "Her fundraising expertise, strategic thinking, and ability to forge strong community partnerships have been instrumental in driving our mission forward. I have no doubt that she will excel in her new role as Disaster Fundraising Director, and I look forward to witnessing the positive impact she will make on a larger scale for the people we serve."
Already this year, the Red Cross has provided support to thousands across the country affected by massive catastrophes. Over 4,000 trained Red Cross team members have delivered much-needed assistance in areas where relentless atmospheric rivers inundated California and where deadly tornadoes struck in the South and Midwest. "And most recently, our disaster teams have been working in the U.S. Territory of Guam where a devastating typhoon hit the island in late May," added Ruster.
Financial donations to the Red Cross during disaster relief are used to directly help those affected. This year alone, Red Cross volunteers have provided more than 40,000 overnight stays in emergency shelters, served over 500,000 meals and snacks, and distributed more than 150,000 relief supplies to individuals impacted by disasters.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.