By Kara Witsoe 

Service to others is a cornerstone of Christine Elliott’s life. She’s been helping individuals prepare for and respond to natural disasters and other events for more than a decade — and she’s only 19 years old. She’s been a dedicated volunteer from elementary school to college, and plans to continue to care for others in her future career. 

At age six, Christine accompanied her mother, who volunteered in their Oregon and Idaho communities, to emergency preparedness trainings. She advanced the slides in her mother’s presentations and handed out educational pamphlets. 

“I officially became a youth volunteer on my 13th birthday and became even more involved. Since then, I‘ve grown my knowledge while continuing to spread the Red Cross mission,” she said. 

Christine performed a variety of volunteer tasks, taking on more responsibility over the years, and eventually served as the president of the Red Cross Club at her high school. She worked with students from other high schools to promote Red Cross programs and youth engagement. She canvassed neighborhoods to promote the Sound the Alarm campaign, which encourages people to install smoke detectors in their home, and assisted at local blood drives. 

“What I love most about volunteering with the Red Cross is connecting with people, learning from them, and helping them feel a little more supported and prepared for whatever life brings,” she shared. 

Christine especially enjoys her visits with military families. “Visiting the local Veterans Home has been one of the most impactful experiences I’ve had with the Red Cross. Spending time with the residents, hearing their stories and learning about their lives has given me a deep appreciation for their sacrifices and resilience.”

“Having numerous family members who are veterans, I’m even more grateful now for their sacrifices. I understand how, by my small actions, I can only begin to repay what they’ve given,” she reflected.

Christine’s own contributions are admirable. She has spent more than 300 hours in the past decade supporting those served by the Red Cross, so it’s not surprising that she will dedicate the next phase of her life to pursuing a career in a field helping others. She’s long dreamt of being a nurse and would like to work with children with cancer in a pediatric oncology unit. 

“I’ve always been drawn to caring for others and making a tangible difference in people's lives. What guided me towards nursing was how deeply I value compassion, empathy, and connection. I want to be there for people in their most vulnerable moments, and help them feel seen, heard, and supported,” she said. 

Christine is currently in her second year of a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Carroll College in Helena, MT. She was recently awarded the prestigious Jane Delano Nursing Student Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding Red Cross volunteers pursuing a career in nursing. As she reflects back on her life so far, she says she has found great reward as a volunteer.

“Being part of the Red Cross mission has shaped me into someone who values empathy, resilience, and service above all else, which continues to drive me in my career. It continues to influence how I serve others, both as a volunteer and as a future nurse,” she said.

“The Red Cross remains a big part of who I am.” 

The Red Cross always needs volunteers like Christine. Learn more about volunteer opportunities or help make an impact in your community by donating online.