A Mission to Help Save Lives



Photos and story by: Ray Lapine, Northwest Region Volunteer
Eric Hagen wanted a job that was “fun and rewarding” and with an organization that had a "good reputation."
He found that job when he became a Red Cross phlebotomist.
Phlebotomists are the people who draw your blood when you come to a Red Cross blood drive.
Eric had no experience in phlebotomy when he came to the Red Cross. He says the organization put him through a twelve week training course to give him the skills he needs. Before coming to the Red Cross, Eric had customer service experience. Plus he knew how to drive a five-ton truck, a skill that would help him drive the truck that brings the necessary equipment to donation sites.
“It's so rewarding. You know you are on a mission to help save lives. It's just wonderful.”
- Eric Hagen, Red Cross Phlebotomist
With thousands of employees and hundreds of thousands of volunteers, the American Red Cross is a diverse network of individuals committed to changing the world one community at a time. We offer a wide variety of opportunities where people are empowered to grow and do the work they are most passionate about.