By: Jenna Schrader

Some journeys with the American Red Cross begin with a single moment. For Advisory Board Member Stephanie Valadez, it began years ago, inspired by partnership, family and a simple, powerful act: giving blood.

Valadez’s mom, a dedicated blood donor who recently celebrated donating 13 gallons, showed Stephanie what steady commitment looks like.

“Like clockwork,” Valadez said, “she always made it a point to donate.”

That example never left her.

After partnering with the Red Cross professionally and later participating in corporate blood drives, Valadez began visiting the Irving Donor Center between drives.

When the opportunity opened to join the North Texas Advisory Board, Valadez didn’t hesitate to reach out to Linda Braddy, CEO North Texas. She wanted to serve her community and better understand the mission.

Through her board service, Valadez has seen firsthand the full scope of the Red Cross mission, from the blood bank process to the warehouse where disaster supplies are staged for rapid response, and from hands-only CPR education to earning her certification in adult first aid, AED and CPR.

“Through my service, I have gained so much more than I have given,” Valadez shared. “I’m grateful to be prepared to be a life changer.”

For years, Valadez was also a dedicated blood donor herself, using the app to track where her blood was sent. Knowing that one donation can help save up to three lives made every appointment meaningful. Though a recent health condition paused her donations, Valadez’s passion hasn’t slowed.

Valadez now uses her voice, network and leadership to amplify the mission.

“Many people don’t realize the breadth of services the Red Cross offers,” she said. “I didn’t before joining the Advisory Board. The best way I can support the organization is by sharing my experiences and recruiting others to get involved.”

And Valadez’s advice to anyone considering it? “Don’t wait.”

Ninety percent of the Red Cross workforce is made up of volunteers, and there are countless ways to serve. When you step forward, you’re joining a globally recognized organization built on compassion, action and community.

We are grateful for leaders like her who turn inspiration into impact and remind us that giving blood, giving time, and giving voice can truly change lives.