Our Red Cross volunteers come together during times of crisis and suffering to provide aid when it is needed most. They come from different backgrounds with traditions and cultures that are native to their heritage and upbringing. This month, we recognize and honor the work of our Asian American and Pacific Islander volunteers for all they do for our lifesaving mission.
Meet Angad Gill, a dedicated volunteer who serves as the Youth Board Member for the Central Valley Chapter. Here is a conversation we had with him about volunteering since middle school, what the Red Cross means to him and Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.
Tell us about yourself?
I’m involved in Science Olympiad, Speech and Debate, Martial Arts, Jakara COVID Team, and recently led the International Humanitarian Law Youth Action Campaign. I am a Junior board member of the American Red Cross Central Valley Chapter. I have been a member of the Red Cross since middle school and am currently president of the Clovis North High School Red Cross Club. I am also president and co-founder of Broncos for Seniors, a club to advocate for and support senior citizens.
Besides that, I love volunteering at the Clovis Community Medical Center, Central California Food Bank, and with the Jakara Covid Team. I’m also a black belt in Taekwondo and my favorite school subjects are chemistry and biology. After high school, I plan to earn a degree at a 4-year university and ultimately go to medical school to become a physician and specialize in Neurology or Rheumatology.
When and how did you get involved with the Red Cross?
I’ve been involved with the Red Cross since the 8th grade of middle school, being the middle school representative of the Clovis North Red Cross Club. The next year I was elected to become the club historian and ultimately worked my way up to co-president and president in subsequent years. I have participated in many events with the Red Cross such as the Veterans Day Parade, Holiday Cards for Veterans, A Taste of Riverpark, Creek Fire Relief and more. I have loved the Red Cross mission ever since I got started, and will forever cherish the experiences the Red Cross has given me.
What is your ‘Why’ for giving back and volunteering?
I love to relieve suffering and pain in this world wherever it exists. I strive to make a positive impact in my community and mitigate the suffering that people experience. Whether it be victims of disaster or veterans who sacrifice their lives for our country, I love to give back and volunteer in many Red Cross events. Volunteering helps contribute to the well-being of others and creates an inclusive community. Not only is it fulfilling to help others in need, but volunteering also helps me build connections with people from diverse backgrounds and circumstances. I am able to learn from others’ experiences and grow as an individual. No matter how small, any actions toward improving the welfare of others can have a meaningful impact.
What is your most memorable moment at the Red Cross?
My most memorable moment at the Red Cross is getting CPR/First Aid/AED training. I was able to arrange CPR training for 20 of my club members. This certification has allowed me to learn such a vital life-saving skill and help save anyone who experiences a heart attack or cardiac arrest. CPR is an important skill to know, so it was great that I was able to receive certification through the Red Cross. Learning how to perform chest compressions, provide rescue breaths, and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) makes me feel empowered and prepared to respond effectively in an emergency situation. With the Red Cross’s training efforts, we can improve the survival rates of cardiac emergencies by providing CPR training to all types of people.
Can you share with us what your heritage and culture means to you?
Being a Sikh, the idea of “seva” is constantly emphasized in my religion. This idea emphasizes the importance of selfless service, embracing humility, helping others, and being down to earth without any expectation of reward or recognition. Sikhism teaches that all human beings are equal and that serving others is a fundamental duty. We are encouraged to engage in selfless acts of service to uplift and assist fellow human beings, regardless of their caste, creed, religion, or social status. Seva plays a central role in fostering compassion, equality, and community engagement. By embodying the values of Seva, we seek to make a positive impact on society and uphold the principles of our faith.
What family traditions did you have growing up?
A few family traditions I had growing up were celebrating Rakhri, Diwali, and watching the New Year’s ball drop every year at my grandparents’ house. Rakhri helps foster sibling love, care and strengthens the bond between brothers and sisters. Diwali promotes togetherness, gratitude, and the importance of spreading joy and positivity by lighting lamps and fireworks. Watching the New Year’s ball drop helps bring my family closer together and is a fun way to celebrate the new year! These family traditions are so important to me because they bring me closer to my cultural heritage and teach me the importance of family. They strengthen familial bonds and provide a sense of identity and rootedness.
What are you looking forward to this year?
I’m looking forward to my senior year and cherishing the final moments of my high school career! I’m excited to apply to colleges this upcoming fall and ultimately move on to higher education to gain a deeper knowledge of areas of my interest. I’m also looking forward to having another successful year with my Red Cross club, participating in many volunteer events and making a positive impact on our community and beyond.
Any words of wisdom or advice you would like to pass on to others?
When tackling any challenge, keep working hard and never give up. Enjoy the journey and have a positive, cheerful outlook on your work.
Become a Volunteer!
Thank you, Angad, for your hard work and dedication, and all you do to help the community as a Red Crosser! Visit redcross.org/volunteer to join him as a Red Cross volunteer.
Red Cross Central California Blog 