American Red Cross Recognizes Volunteer Achievements

Mid-South Chapter

MEMPHIS, Tenn., May 26, 2023 - The American Red Cross Mid-South Chapter recently recognized its exceptional volunteers who continue to work tirelessly to help people in need. 

“We are even more aware of the great dedication of our volunteers, whose support makes a dramatic difference for our neighbors in need,” Sarah Breazeale, local chapter executive director said. “In thanks for their dedicated service, we have presented Elzadia Washington, Sandra Schroeder, Betty Gibson, and Diana Houston with Red Cross volunteer awards for the vital role they play in carrying out our mission in our community.”

In the Tennessee region, more than 2,000 people volunteer with the Red Cross by responding to home fires and other disasters, supporting blood collections, providing emergency assistance to military families, and much more. These individuals are among the more than 300,000 volunteers nationwide who comprise more than 90% of the national Red Cross workforce.

This year’s award winners are:

Elzadia “Zee” Washington, of Proctor, Arkansas, received the Excellence in Disaster Services Chapter Award to recognize her contributions to responding to disasters within Crittenden County, setting up shelters, leading shelter teams, and being a constant support to clients across our community. Zee also supports preparedness activities and serves as an ambassador for our mission, meeting with local partners in anticipation of a disaster response. “Zee is an irreplaceable volunteer, serving in many capacities to meet the needs of her community. She has demonstrated repeatedly that service to her community is an upmost priority,” Breazeale said. 

Sandra “Sandy” Schroeder, of Memphis, received the Excellence in Disaster Services Chapter Award, to recognize her commitment as a caseworker. Sandy cares for our clients and seeks out creative solutions for the many challenges they face after a disaster. Sandy has assisted hundreds of clients in this last year alone—including multiple families who have suffered disaster related fatalities. Serving as a leader and trainer for new volunteers, she shares her experience and knowledge with enthusiasm and passion,” Breazeale said.

Betty Gibson, of Memphis, received the Humanitarian Chapter Award to recognize her commitment and dedication as the face of the Red Cross by selflessly serving as a front desk representative and Blood Donor Ambassador. “Betty is an invaluable asset, showing up to serve day in and day out. She is always eager to support the mission of the Red Cross,” Breazeale said. 

Diana Houston, of Memphis, received the Humanitarian Chapter Award to recognize her contributions in supporting vital administrative functions of the chapter. “Through staff transitions, Diana has remained steadfast, demonstrating a thirst for continued learning and an eagerness to support however possible. The administrative support that Diana provides allows us to seamlessly serve our clients,” Breazeale said.

If you are interested in becoming an American Red Cross volunteer, visit redcross.org/volunteer to sign up online.

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/Tennessee  or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossTN. The American Red Cross Tennessee Region serves all 95 counties in Tennessee, Crittenden County in Arkansas and Desoto and Tunica counties in Mississippi. The Tennessee Region – part of a nationwide network of locally supported chapters - is comprised of the following eight Red Cross chapters: East Tennessee, Heart of Tennessee, Mid-South, Mid-West Tennessee, Nashville Area, Southeast Tennessee, Northeast Tennessee, and Tennessee River.