The American Red Cross announced on May 5 that the public is invited to attend a retirement celebration for East Central Ohio Chapter Executive Director Rod Cook, who is retiring after 23 years of service. Cook’s retirement will be effective May 22.
The open house event in honor of Cook’s retirement will take place on May 8 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the East Central Ohio Chapter office building in Newark, Ohio. Community members are encouraged to stop by and wish Cook well as he enters his next chapter.
Cook’s chapter currently covers the counties of Athens, Crawford, Richland, Morrow, Marion, Knox, Licking, Coshocton, Guernsey, Noble, Morgan, Perry, and Muskingum. According to the announcement, while the boundaries and name of Cook’s chapter have changed over time, he has remained a consistent presence in Mid-Ohio through the Southeastern corridor during his tenure. Partnership-building has been central to his work with other nonprofit organizations, community groups, foundations, first responders and companies.
Cook played a key role in strategizing and fundraising for the American Red Cross Blood and Platelet Donation Center in Newark. Since its opening in December 2024, nearly three thousand red cell products have been collected at this center. He also collaborated with national Red Cross leaders on developing the Latino Engagement Initiative aimed at enhancing services and partnerships with Latino communities. The organization said that Cook has traveled to national disasters to ensure impacted Latino communities—and all affected communities—are properly served.
The American Red Cross provides disaster relief services including sheltering and feeding victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; offers international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The organization depends on volunteers and public generosity for its mission. More information can be found at the organization's website.
