National Volunteer Week is being observed from April 19 through April 25 and the American Red Cross Northern California Coastal Region is taking time to honor those who are the heart of the organization; the volunteers who contribute their time and talent to make the Red Cross mission possible every day.
Generations of American Red Cross volunteers have helped and supported people in need since the organization was founded in 1881 and new data recently revealed a national snapshot of volunteerism across generations. From Gen Z to the Silent Generation, people of all ages make up the Red Cross’ 325,000-plus volunteers — which have increased nearly 25 percent over the past three years as part of a nationwide post-pandemic rebound.
Throughout the spring and summer, the Northern California Coastal Region will celebrate those in service by hosting Volunteer Recognition events across the region, bringing together volunteers of all ages to recognize their impact and dedication.
The Northern California Coastal Region includes five chapters: the Bay Area, North Bay, Heart of the Valley, Silicon Valley and Central Coast.
The Heart of the Valley Chapter is headquartered in Stockton and serves nearly 1.6 million residents in Merced, San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties.
“Generations of American Red Cross volunteers have come together to deliver care and hope in the face of emergencies,” said Lauren Baker, Interim Regional Volunteer Services Officer. “Join this generation of volunteers working together to bring comfort and relief to people in need.”
Right now there is a critical need for people to fill a variety of roles. Free training will be provided.
Disaster Action Team: The vast majority of emergencies Red Cross volunteers respond to are local, personal crises like home fires. These events may not make headlines, but they shatter lives. For more than 60 years, the Disaster Action Team volunteers have been ready 24/7, 365 days a year — to deliver immediate relief, emotional support and long-term recovery resources.
Shelter Resident Transition Associate: These caseworkers work with shelter residents during a larger disaster response to help them create an action plan so that they can transition from the shelter to a more sustainable living solution, helping to jumpstart their recovery.
Blood Donor Ambassador: If you enjoy connecting with people, consider becoming a Blood Donor Ambassador. Ambassadors help ensure every blood donor has a positive experience from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. You’ll greet donors, assist with registration, answer questions, share helpful information and offer refreshments after their donation. Whether you volunteer regularly or occasionally is up to you.
Blood Transportation Specialist: This vital role brings lifesaving blood and blood products to local hospitals within their region. They choose when they want to help with either scheduled shifts or via on-demand opportunities. As an on-demand volunteer you can choose shifts that fit your schedule. You will receive real-time alerts when hospitals have a critical request for urgently needed blood and be on your way to the distribution site within 30-120 minutes. Your time driving could be the difference in helping save a patient’s life.
Your time and talents can make an impact. Find the best way for you to get involved by visiting redcross.org/volunteer.
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow Red Cross on social media.
