Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Aug. 19, 2025) — Today, the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada joins the global community in observing World Humanitarian Day, honoring the courage and compassion of humanitarian workers and remembering those who lost their lives while helping others. From conflict zones and disaster sites abroad to communities here in Southern Nevada, Red Cross humanitarians continue delivering lifesaving support and hope wherever it’s needed most.
“Every year, Red Cross and Red Crescent staff and volunteers reach 1 in 65 people around the world,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “From earthquakes and armed conflicts to migration crises and health epidemics, they not only respond to emergencies but also help communities prepare for what’s ahead.”
Honoring Humanitarian Sacrifice
Humanitarian work often comes with great personal risk. In 2024, 32 Red Cross and Red Crescent staff and volunteers tragically lost their lives while serving others. Sadly, another 16 lives have already been lost this year. Their courage and dedication remind us of the sacrifices made in the name of humanity. To learn more about these brave humanitarians, visit the Red Cross and Red Crescent Memorial.
Making an Impact Globally and Locally
This year, the Red Cross and Red Crescent network has been on the ground in conflict zones, natural disasters and health crises worldwide, delivering relief and hope where it’s needed most. From Israel, Gaza and Myanmar to communities in Africa and the Middle East, volunteers and staff continue to provide lifesaving support in some of the most challenging environments.
Here in the United States, the Red Cross of Southern Nevada has played a vital role in disaster response. Volunteers and staff have been on the frontlines assisting after wildfires in California, hurricanes in Florida and tornadoes in the Midwest. Closer to home, volunteers responded last year to more than 350 home fires across Southern Nevada, assisting over 1,350 people.
“World Humanitarian Day reminds us that everyone can contribute to making a difference,” Flanigan said.
Volunteer and Be Part of the Solution
Across the U.S., more than 275,000 Red Cross volunteers carry out critical missions — from disaster relief and blood collection to supporting military families and preparing communities for emergencies. In Southern Nevada alone, more than 1,100 volunteers contributed to these efforts last year. To learn how you can get involved, visit redcross.org/volunteer. Whether serving in disaster zones or lending a hand locally, your time and skills can make a lasting difference.
The broader impact of volunteering nationwide is extraordinary. According to a U.S. Census Bureau and AmeriCorps study, 75.7 million Americans participated in organized volunteer efforts, contributing an estimated 4.99 billion service hours valued at $167.2 billion. Nevada’s volunteer efforts are notable, with roughly 480,000 residents contributing in 2023, generating an estimated $1.1 billion in value through their service.
About World Humanitarian Day
World Humanitarian Day, observed annually on Aug. 19, pays tribute to humanitarian workers who have been killed or injured in the line of duty and honors the countless aid and health workers who continue to deliver lifesaving support to people in need around the world. The day serves as a reminder of the importance and impact of humanitarian action.
The United Nations General Assembly designated World Humanitarian Day in 2009, in memory of the Aug. 19, 2003, bombing of the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, which killed 22 people, including Sergio Vieira de Mello, the UN’s top humanitarian in Iraq.
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.
