Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (April 10, 2026) — During National Volunteer Month, the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is recognizing blood donors and the volunteers who help make blood drives possible across the state. Blood collection depends not only on the people who come to give, but also on the volunteers who help donors through the process and keep drives running.
“For many people, donating blood starts with a simple decision to help, but what stays with them is the kindness they find when they walk through the door,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Volunteers are the ones greeting donors, helping them check in, answering questions and making them feel comfortable.”
Volunteers Keep Blood Drives Running
In 2025, Red Cross volunteers in Southern Nevada supported 709 blood drives that collected 16,687 units of blood. Those drives were hosted by schools, businesses, churches and community groups across Southern Nevada, showing how much blood donation depends on local support.
Nationwide, more than 325,000 Red Cross volunteers support the organization’s work, from disaster response and blood collection to support for military families and community preparedness. In blood collection, volunteers serve in roles such as Blood Donor Ambassadors, who welcome and assist donors at drives, and Blood Transportation Specialists, who help deliver blood products to hospitals.
The Red Cross of Southern Nevada invites businesses, schools, churches and community groups to host blood drives. The Red Cross provides planning support, recruitment tools, equipment, materials and trained staff to help make each drive successful. More information is available at redcrossblood.org/host-a-drive.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Red Cross offers a range of volunteer opportunities to support its humanitarian mission. In Southern Nevada and across the country, volunteers respond to disasters, assist with blood drives, support military families and help communities prepare for and recover from emergencies. Visit redcross.org/volunteer for more information.
How to Donate
Blood donation appointments can be made through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Those who come to give by April 12 will receive an exclusive Red Cross x Life Is Good® T-shirt, while supplies last. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/LifeIsGood. Those who come to give April 13-30 will receive a $15 e-gift card. Details about the April 13-30 offer are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Hope.
Recognizing Service During National Volunteer Month
National Volunteer Month began in April 1991 as part of President George H.W. Bush’s Thousand Points of Light campaign. It was started to recognize the value of volunteerism and inspire people to get involved in their communities. National Volunteer Week, observed April 19-25, 2026, is part of the month-long observance and focuses on volunteer service across the country.
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 follow us on social media.
