By Trista Lay

Gail Lawhorn first started volunteering with the American Red Cross in April 2019. She has since become an invaluable member of the Southeast Tennessee chapter. As a volunteer, Gail says that she regularly fulfills roles on the disaster action team as well as a Community Volunteer Lead.

Her experience with the Red Cross comes after a decades-long career working security at Disney World where she faced a variety of situations. Her time there helped prepare her to be an integral member of her local Red Cross chapter and to respond to disaster operations as well as act as a community volunteer.

Gail recalls one significant response where she, alongside her fellow disaster volunteers, responded to a request for assistance with acquiring food donations for first responders. According to Gail, these first responders were doing an overnight search and rescue of a plane crash in the mountains of Southeast Tennessee. Gail and her crew immediately jumped into action and called around to different community organizations for food donations before heading to the mountains for the night.

As a Community Volunteer Lead, Gail says her role is “keeping Red Cross in front of elected officials, faith-based groups and other community organizations.” She has therefore made it a mission to stay involved with the community by joining the Chamber of Commerce and regularly attending County Commission meetings.

When asked about a time when she has felt proud to be a Red Cross volunteer, Gail said, “all the time.” One recent instance she recalls is an older community member experiencing a home fire on the anniversary of his wife’s death. The Red Cross provided him with financial assistance during the fallout of the fire and when his house was finished rebuilding, he held a party to celebrate in which he invited the Red Cross team. It was there they met his family which made the moment an incredibly profound moment for all involved.

Gail encourages more individuals to become involved with their local Red Cross chapter. “There are so many different ways to get involved,” Gail says. “It is more than just doing blood drives or going outside at 3 AM.”

She also encourages potential donors to talk to their local Red Cross leaders and learn about the numerous ways donations are used in case they may be hesitant.

 “I volunteer with the Red Cross because no one should face their worst day alone.” Gail says. “I along with other volunteers are there for everyone - no exceptions - offering help, hope and compassion when it's needed most.”

If you are interested in volunteering with the American Red Cross, visit redcross.org to find opportunities near you.