The American Red Cross Central & Southern Ohio Region announced on April 20 that it is recognizing the dedication of its volunteers during National Volunteer Week, observed from April 19 through April 25. The organization said that volunteers make up 90 percent of its workforce and are essential to fulfilling the Red Cross mission every day.
According to the announcement, generations of American Red Cross volunteers have supported people in need since the organization's founding in 1881. These volunteers assist with blood drives, support military families, respond to disasters, and contribute across all areas of the organization's work. In Central & Southern Ohio alone, more than 4,163 individuals volunteer with the Red Cross. Nationally, over 325,000 people support the mission as volunteers. Globally, more than 17 million Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers serve in over 191 countries.
The organization highlighted ongoing efforts this month to showcase its volunteers' contributions on its regional Facebook page. To further honor their service, seven celebrations for volunteers will be held across the region on Saturday, April 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with media invited to attend. Locations include Columbus (995 E. Broad Street), Marion (1849 Summerset Dr.), Cincinnati (2111 Dana Ave.), Newark (225 N. 21st St.), Dayton (370 West 1st Street), Chillicothe (181 N. Bridge Street), and Athens (100 S. May Ave.).
The announcement also invites new participants to join their team of volunteers by filling critical roles such as Disaster Action Team members, Shelter Resident Transition Associates, Blood Donor Ambassadors, and Blood Transportation Specialists. Free training is provided for these positions.
The American Red Cross provides shelter and comfort to disaster victims; supplies about forty percent of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans and military families. The organization depends on both volunteers and public generosity for its operations.
More information about volunteering or attending upcoming events can be found at redcross.org/volunteer or through the organization's website.
