We recognize their commitment to the mission – and that of all VI volunteers – during this National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 17-21)

U.S. Virgin Islands, April 17, 2023 — The American Red Cross is providing comfort and support to people across multiple states after deadly tornadoes and severe storms have uprooted lives and devastated entire communities – and seven of our island team members are there on the ground. VI community heroes have stepped up and out of the tropical environment to care for those in need, traveling to highly impacted areas across Mississippi and Arkansas to deliver emergency relief.

The tornado devastation across the South and Midwest is sad and serious. Red Cross volunteers have come from all points of the nation to assist and provide help and hope to these communities. Virgin Islanders have been on the ground since late March, supporting mass care operations, sheltering, logistics, technology, and casework.

Those deployed have expressed the fulfillment and inner gratification of being able to help and making a difference in the lives of those affected.

Tina Beazer, Executive Director of the VI team, deployed to Arkansas to bring hope to those who are suffering loss of property and even loved ones. “I want them to know they're not alone," she said.

Marjorie John of St. Croix deployed to Mississippi to support sheltering. She was directly affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, and appreciated the help received by Red Cross volunteers from around the nation when our island community was most in need.

Langley Shazor of St. Thomas deployed to Mississippi to support logistics and warehousing. As he reflected on the devastation, he said, “Experiences like this really put things in perspective and have me recalibrating -- prioritizing what is really important. People, life, relationships, mental health, and personal well-being must become the focus.”

While overwhelmed by a “sense of gratitude to be able to serve,” both Marjorie and Langley have extended their commitment beyond the two-week requirement to make a greater impact in the functions and communities they are serving.

In addition to the three Virgin Islanders above, several other workers have deployed: Patricia Swan, disaster program manager on St. Thomas, and volunteers Angel Romero, Iva Brandy and Gwendolyn O’Garro. The opportunity to deploy allows volunteers to give back, and to have first-hand experience to help our island community when disaster strikes.

The Red Cross celebrates Volunteer Appreciation Week April 17–21 to recognize those that give so selflessly. The Virgin Islands is proud to have over 120 volunteers and we are still seeking more hands as we prepare for the soon approaching hurricane season. These devastating extreme weather events are important reminders that preparedness is vital before, during and after a disaster.  

YOU CAN HELP:

Volunteer.  We need you. The American Red Cross is an organization for the people, by the people. ​The backbone of the Red Cross is our volunteers who represent over 90% of Red Cross workforce on the islands. We are looking for volunteers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to serve on in-person assignments. Consider becoming a Red Crosser today! Apply online at redcross.org/usvi or call 340-778-5104 (St. Croix) or 340-774-0375 (St. Thomas).   

Donate. You can make a difference in the lives of people affected by tornadoes and storms in the South and Midwest. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from these disasters. This includes providing food, shelter, relief supplies, emotional support, recovery planning and other assistance. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or text the word TORNADO to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

The American Red Cross of the U.S. Virgin Islands has offices in St. Croix and St. Thomas (serving St. Thomas, St. John and the Water Island districts). Call us at 340-778-5104 (St. Croix) or 340-774-0375 (St. Thomas). For more information, please visit redcross.org/USVI or facebook.com/RedCrossUSVI

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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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