During National Volunteer Week, April 21-27, the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region is celebrating community heroes whose daily support and hard work embody the organization’s lifesaving mission to help people in need.
Last year, more than 2,000 local Red Cross volunteers supported blood drives, assisted veterans and military families and helped families recover after local disasters, including home fires. Nationally, volunteers represent more than 90% of the Red Cross workforce providing comfort and relief in the face of emergencies.
“Our volunteers are the heart and soul of the Red Cross,” said Jennifer Graham, CEO, Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania. “Their support is immeasurable. Without the gift of their time and talents, we wouldn’t be able to help people in what can be their darkest hour.”
The combination of heartbreaking home fires and the worsening climate crisis is creating a critical need for disaster volunteers. Last year, the country saw an all-time high of billion-dollar disasters which forced hundreds of thousands of people out of their homes.
In Southeastern Pennsylvania alone, our volunteers responded to more than 775 disasters, mostly home fires, providing nearly 2,500 people with emergency assistance, including financial support, recovery planning, emotional and health support and more. Eighty-five of our local volunteers also deployed over 200 times across the country to support national disaster relief operations.
JOIN US ─ VOLUNTEER
While volunteers of all types are needed, the Red Cross has a critical need for four specific positions. These roles are a great fit for those who are team-oriented and want to make an immediate difference. Free training will be provided.
Just like the people served by the Red Cross, the organization is proud its volunteers represent a wide array of cultures, backgrounds, ages, gender identities, lifestyles and beliefs. Everyone is welcome.
This Volunteer Week, the Red Cross is inviting community members to put on a red vest and join the team. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to get started today.
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.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
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Your time and talent can make a real difference in people’s lives. Discover the role that's right for you and join us today!