Give back during National Volunteer Month; join the Red Cross to help people in need
APRIL 2024 — During National Volunteer Month this April, the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania is celebrating community heroes whose daily support and hard work embody the organization's lifesaving mission to help people in need.
Last year, more than 3,300 Red Cross volunteers across the Greater Pennsylvania Region supported blood drives, assisted veterans and military families, and provided food and shelter after more than 1,500 disasters of all sizes. Nationally, volunteers represent more than 90% of the Red Cross workforce providing comfort and relief in the face of emergencies.
“Our volunteers are the heart and soul of the Red Cross,” said Jorge Martinez, CEO of the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania. “Their support is immeasurable. Without the gift of their time and talents, we wouldn't be able to help people in what can be their darkest hour.”
The combination of heartbreaking home fires and the worsening climate crisis is creating a critical need for disaster volunteers. Last year, the country saw an all-time high of billion-dollar disasters which forced hundreds of thousands of people out of their homes.
Join us - volunteer
While volunteers of all types are needed, the Red Cross has a critical need for three specific positions. These roles are a great fit for those who are team-oriented and want to make an immediate difference. Free online training will be provided.
• As a Disaster Action Team volunteer, you can be a source of refuge and comfort for neighbors when they need it most. Disaster Action Team members provide emotional support, emergency financial assistance and information to help families begin to recover.
• As a Shelter Services volunteer, you can support the dayto-day activities within an emergency shelter. This includes helping residents in different shelter areas such as reception, registration, feeding, dormitory or information.
• As a Disaster Health Services volunteer, you can use your professional skills as a licensed healthcare provider to deliver hands-on care to people in shelters. Volunteers also provide additional support including health assessments, health education and much more.
Just like the people served by the Red Cross, the organization is proud its volunteers represent a wide array of cultures, backgrounds, ages, gender identities, lifestyles and beliefs. Everyone is welcome.
This Volunteer Month, the Red Cross is inviting community members to put on a red vest and join the team. Visit redcross. org/volunteertoday to get started today.