Media Contact: Lily McCormick
Regional Communications Manager
lily.mccormick@redcross.org | 385-584-7610
SALT LAKE CITY (May 19, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah has teamed up with the University of Utah’s Department of Writing and Rhetoric Studies to provide students with experience in nonprofit grant writing. This unique partnership offers students the chance to develop critical skills while actively supporting the Red Cross mission.
Each semester, members of the Red Cross of Utah’s development team collaborate with Professor Pamela Balluck to bring real-world application to the classroom. Students in Dr. Balluck’s grant writing courses work on crafting authentic grant applications for the Red Cross, allowing them to bridge their academic knowledge with practical nonprofit work.
This semester, students from Dr. Balluck’s three classes focused on analyzing Red Cross community programs to tailor strong, effective grant proposals. Supported by Red Cross employees who serve as advisors and editors, the students receive hands-on guidance, data, and feedback to refine their work. More than 60 students participated in the program, gaining invaluable insights into professional grant writing.
“Grant writing is a unique and in-demand skill that many students don’t get to develop until they’re already in the workforce,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “This partnership allows students to walk away with tangible, portfolio-ready work that can help jumpstart their careers.”
Empowering the Next Generation of Nonprofit Professionals
The Red Cross of Utah is dedicated to serving the community and fostering collaboration to further its impact. Partnerships such as this one with the University of Utah not only help the Red Cross enhance its mission but also empower students to build valuable expertise in nonprofit communication and fundraising.
Students who complete Dr. Balluck’s grant writing course are also invited to continue volunteering with the Red Cross development team. This extended engagement provides more opportunities to refine their skills while making meaningful contributions to the organization’s work.
“Any time we can help prepare the next generation of nonprofit professionals, it’s something worth celebrating,” said Ruster. “This partnership allows us to connect with future changemakers and show just how expansive our work truly is.”
Join the Red Cross Team
The American Red Cross offers over 100 volunteer roles across various levels and backgrounds. From disaster response to fundraising support, there’s a role for everyone. Training is available for all positions. To learn more, visit redcross.org/volunteer.
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.
