By Kara Witsoe, American Red Cross Volunteer
Hope Marozwa leads a life of purpose in the office and in her limited free time. She helps others in the field of human services for a Washington state agency and has committed to doing even more humanitarian work as a Red Cross volunteer. For the past three years, she’s shared her time, talents, and passion with the organization and has taken on dual responsibilities to involve more diverse communities and assist people affected by natural disasters.
“I’m deeply passionate about community development and partnerships, disaster response, and strengthening support systems for those in need,” she said.
As an Ambassador for Representation, Hope aims to build a more comprehensive volunteer base from underrepresented populations served by the Red Cross, as well as working to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization.
Hope is also the Red Cross Northwest Washington Chapter’s Deputy Sheltering Coordinator. She supports disaster relief efforts to ensure that those affected have a safe place to sleep and support to deal with the trauma they’ve just experienced. Additionally, she participates in programs that can save lives, including Sound the Alarm events, which help people prepare for the risk of home fires.
She has experienced the life-changing impact that helping others brings. “One unforgettable experience was during a disaster deployment, working with families who had just lost their homes. They arrived feeling hopeless, and we were able to provide them with shelter, food, and emotional support. Seeing them smile again, even in the face of loss, reaffirmed why this work is so important.”
Hope has been inspired by witnessing the tenacity of others, especially after one of the deadliest fires in American history, in Hawaii in 2023.
“My experience in Maui taught me a lot about their strength and resilience, sense of community, and how they showed up for each other. It was an experience that reminded me why I wake up each day and want to do this work.”
Local volunteers are always needed. If you’re interested in helping others during some of the most challenging times in their lives, or providing the many support services the Red Cross offers, please visit www.redcross.org/volunteer to learn more.
Community organizations or members interested in collaborating and working on ways to better serve citizens in northwest Washington can contact Hope Marozwa at hope.marozwa@redcross.org.
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