Airik Myers, Northwest Region Volunteer

For the Northwest’s Zara Azeem, volunteering with the American Red Cross began as a simple desire to get involved with her high school community. She joined her school’s Red Cross Club, participating in monthly projects that ranged from hosting blood drives to fundraising for global initiatives like Vaccinate a Village.

The more she participated, the more she realized just how meaningful community service felt. She wanted to do even more. That motivation led Zara to apply for a full time steady-state volunteer position with the Red Cross. What began as a school club quickly grew into a deeper commitment, and she has been dedicated to supporting the mission ever since.

Today Zara serves as the Northwest Regional Onboarding Lead. In this role she manages the Onboarding team, facilitates orientations for new volunteers, and processes applications through Volunteer Connection. It is a position that allows her to connect with people across all backgrounds and interests.

For Zara, this is the best part of her work. She loves hearing new perspectives and collaborating with both new and seasoned volunteers who share a passion for helping others. Being able to interact with so many diverse groups reminds her why the mission matters.

Looking ahead, Zara hopes to continue expanding her experience within the Red Cross by learning more about disaster response and eventually contributing in a more hands-on way. Until then she is focused on strengthening her confidence, sharpening her organizational skills, and growing as a communicator and leader. No matter what direction her volunteer journey takes, she hopes to bring her best self to any role she steps into.

While Zara does not have a personal family story connected to the Red Cross mission, she has seen firsthand how the organization shows up for communities across the United States. Knowing that her work directly supports that effort inspires her to stay involved and give her best every day.

Volunteering has had a powerful impact on Zara’s life. As she grew in her Red Cross role she also grew as a leader at school, especially in her Associated Student Body position. Being part of the Red Cross taught her how to work well with others, be patient, and speak up with confidence. It strengthened her connection to service and encouraged her to seek out even more ways to support her community.

During the recent National Youth Involvement Month, Zara encouraged young people to take the step to try something new. Her message is simple: There are many different ways to get involved within the Red Cross, so do not hesitate to explore. Every volunteer plays an important part in supporting the mission.

“Your motivation and hard work make a real difference, no matter your experience or role,” according to Zara Azeem.