Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
RENO, Nev. (Mar. 1, 2023) — The American Red Cross of Northern Nevada today is celebrating the start of the 80th anniversary of Red Cross Month by encouraging all residents to donate, volunteer or take a lifesaving skills class.
Also, during the Red Cross Month celebration, chapters nationwide are honoring the staff and volunteers who carry out the Red Cross mission by helping people in need. “When emergencies strike, our volunteers are there to help families and individuals when it matters most,” said Mary Powell, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “Without their hard work and generosity, the Red Cross would not be able to deliver its mission.”
In fact, this past year in Northern and Rural Nevada, more than 400 Red Cross volunteers provided daily disaster relief, smoke alarm installations, and free safety and preparedness programs in the area. “Our volunteers and staff responded to more than 125 home fires and helped nearly 450 people in our communities last year,” Powell said. “And now we want to encourage more residents to turn their compassion into action by committing donate or volunteer during Red Cross Month and throughout the year.”
Red Cross Month began in 1943 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first national Red Cross Month proclamation, recognizing those who give back through the American Red Cross. Every president since has issued the proclamation.
On March 22, you can also join our annual Red Cross Giving Day campaign by donating at redcross.org/givingday to help provide shelter, food, relief items, emotional support and other assistance for people affected by disasters big and small.
“The Red Cross of Northern Nevada brings help and hope to those in need, but we can’t do our work without the contributions of others,” Powell said. “From showing up to support families devastated by a home fire to providing and installing free smoke alarms, we’re there because so many people are willing to find a way to donate to our efforts. Red Cross Month is a special opportunity to remind everyone the Red Cross needs and appreciates your generosity, year-round.”
Become a Red Cross volunteer
The need for volunteers has never been greater as the country experiences larger and more intense disasters. Become a Red Cross volunteer to help families in need. We provide the training. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to learn more.
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.