Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Jan. 10, 2025) — Today is Quitter’s Day, the day when most people have already abandoned their New Year’s resolutions, often due to setting lofty or unrealistic goals. The American Red Cross of Utah is inviting all Utahns to make a meaningful change this year by committing to a new resolution that truly counts, volunteering to support their neighbors and making a lasting impact in their community.
Volunteering provides an opportunity to transform lives while fulfilling a personal sense of purpose and making meaningful connections. Whether offering emotional support to disaster survivors, teaching lifesaving skills, organizing blood drives, or supporting the military community, Red Cross volunteers ensure help and hope are ready whenever and wherever they are needed.
“Many resolutions are often discarded early in the year,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Instead of giving up on starting fresh, we encourage Utahns to recommit in a way that’s meaningful and realistic, by signing up to volunteer with the Red Cross. It’s a resolution that benefits not only you but also the countless people and families who rely on our support.”
Redefining Quitter’s Day
The second Friday in January is known as “Quitter’s Day,” a time when about 80% of people give up on their New Year’s resolutions, according to studies. This year, the Red Cross of Utah urges everyone to reimagine this day and turn it into an opportunity to refocus on what truly matters. “By choosing to volunteer, you can create a resolution that makes a direct, lasting impact on your community and the lives of those in need,” Ruster said.
Utah Volunteers Creating Positive Change
Last year, more than 1,500 Utahns volunteered with the Red Cross, providing vital support for disaster relief, hosting blood drives, and leading safety and preparedness programs. Local volunteers responded to over 250 home fires, helping nearly 800 people recover during their moments of greatest need.
On a national level, over 275,000 Red Cross volunteers give their time to serve their communities. These volunteers respond to disasters, assist with blood collection, support military families, and contribute to global emergency preparedness efforts. Remarkably, volunteers account for about 90% of the Red Cross workforce, emphasizing their critical role in delivering life-changing support.
The American Red Cross offers a range of volunteer opportunities tailored to different skills, interests, and schedules. Whether you prefer working behind the scenes or responding to emergencies on the front lines, every volunteer helps build stronger, more resilient communities. Find a role that fits you by visiting redcross.org/volunteer.
Volunteering Benefits Health and Well-Being
Research shows that volunteering offers numerous health benefits, including lower rates of depression, improved overall well-being, and a reduced risk of certain health conditions. Volunteering is also particularly beneficial for mental health, as it fosters a sense of purpose and belonging. For older adults, volunteer work can lead to even greater health benefits, showing that it’s never too late to make a difference.
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.