By Volunteer Julia Zauner

Volunteers took center stage on April 21 at the Egg Harbor Township American Red Cross office, where the Sundaes on a Tuesday event offered a fun and meaningful way to celebrate National Volunteer Week. The event was one of five gatherings held across the state from April 19–25, each designed to recognize and thank New Jersey Red Cross volunteers for their service.

VIEW PHOTOS from all 5 events

Hosted by the Volunteer Services Team, the event brought together local volunteers and staff for an afternoon of appreciation and connection. Guests enjoyed a build-your-own ice cream sundae (or float) bar, complete with a wide array of toppings, along with salty snacks, games, and Red Cross swag. It was a relaxing afternoon of conversation, laughter, and relationship-building among those who make the Red Cross mission possible every day.

^{_{“I’m so happy to be celebrating our volunteers,”}}

said Rachel Lippoff, Executive Director, American Red Cross of Southern New Jersey. “We are always happy to show volunteers how much we appreciate them—and ice cream is the best way to celebrate!”

Volunteers representing a broad cross-section of Red Cross service areas, including Biomedical Services, Disaster Cycle Services, and Service to the Armed Forces attended. The room buzzed with energy as longtime volunteers reconnected and new introductions were made across different teams.

^{_{“It’s a great opportunity for volunteers to get to know other Red Crossers,”}}

said Linda Kolman, Disaster Cycle Services Volunteer and Volunteer Partner to Community Disaster Program Manager Jim Eden in Southern New Jersey.

With the theme, “How SWEET it is to have Volunteers like YOU!”, the week served as a meaningful reminder of the vital role volunteers play in delivering the Red Cross mission. Their generosity, compassion, and commitment continue to strengthen communities and bring help and hope to those in need.

Events like these not only celebrate volunteer contributions but also reinforce the sense of community that defines the Red Cross. And as this gathering showed, even a simple shared treat can spark meaningful moments of community and appreciation.

VOLUNTEER with the American Red Cross. Make a difference and get involved in your community!