National Volunteer Month: Join Us!

By Cathy Simpson, Volunteer

April is National Volunteer Month, a month dedicated to honoring all of the volunteers in our communities as well as encouraging volunteerism throughout the month.

Have you thought about being an American Red Cross volunteer? Volunteers are the heart of the Red Cross. Volunteers carry out 90% of the humanitarian work of the Red Cross. That’s 15 volunteers for every one employee. The Red Cross is always in need of new volunteers, and we are ready to match your skills, experience and schedule with our needs.

To begin your journey to become a Red Cross volunteer, take a look at the American Red Cross history and mission statement found on the Red Cross website. With the mission in mind, click on the Volunteer heading to view videos and access a list and descriptions of the many ways the Red Cross needs your help.

Some of the major areas where help is needed include: biomedical/blood services, communications/public affairs, corporate finance, corporate management and oversight, disaster cycle services, human resources, international services, office administration, preparedness and health & safety services, military and veteran communities services and volunteer services.

Needs in all of these areas result in such volunteer opportunities as helping at a blood drive; providing on ground disaster assistance; offering military and veteran assistance; transporting blood, supplies and food; writing communications; helping assemble packets and kits; participating in fundraising; teaching CPR, first aid or babysitting; and becoming a special events or special projects coordinator.

Location is another important consideration. Volunteers can work on-site in places such as, at National Headquarters, in regional offices, on disaster sites, in hospitals or from home.
Once you have an idea of your area of interest and determine if you want an in-person or from home environment, log on to the Red Cross volunteer website where you’ll find positions that fit your talents and your schedule. To apply and find more information, visit the Volunteer Connection site here and click the red 'Get Started' button. This will begin the process to join the Red Cross volunteer team.

The process to become a Red Cross volunteer is completed once you have submitted your online application, activated your account, read and agreed to the Red Cross policies, initiated your background check and completed a phone interview with a Red Cross intake volunteer.

Being a Red Cross volunteer gives you the opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills while you are making a difference. The American Red Cross values your time and skills. We look forward to your joining our team.

For more information on how to volunteer, click here!