By Alison Votaw, Red Cross Communications Volunteer
Bre Vallado joined her local American Red Cross chapter in 2023 with ambitions to work with the International Committee for the Red Cross. While she is still working towards that goal, her passion for International Humanitarian Law (IHL) has led her to participate in lesser-known Red Cross programs. Bre holds the distinction of being the first and only volunteer in the Central California Region to be involved in all International Services programs.
“Youth Action Campaign has been my absolute favorite part of the Red Cross.”
Bre Vallado
Through the Youth Action Campaign, Bre has empowered students to create peer-to-peer awareness campaigns aimed at educating their peers about International Humanitarian Law.
By working with youth, she has been able to make an impact on the next generation, but they also bring her fulfillment and inspiration. “The questions they ask always surprise me!”
The Youth Action Campaign provides a safe space for students to discuss and debate IHL topics, fostering an environment where they can learn from each other. Bre emphasizes the importance of these discussions, citing the prevalence of misinformation surrounding wartime law.
These peer-led discussions take various forms, including movie nights and game nights, all with the common goal of educating and facilitating meaningful international discussions at a peer-to-peer level.
In her first year as a Red Cross volunteer, Bre continued to grow in her role and pursued her passions which led her to the Restoring Family Links program. This program aims to reunite families separated internationally due to conflict, disaster, migration or other humanitarian emergencies.
The process starts with interviewing the family and finding out any information they can about the missing loved one. Bre notes that any information can be significant, even their hobbies or religion can help the Red Cross track down an individual. This service is entirely confidential.
While Bre has only handled one case so far, she looks forward to the opportunities it may bring. She aspires to raise awareness about this vital program among families in Central California who have been separated from their loved ones
Bre’s experience with the Red Cross has solidified her desire to pursue a career in public international law. She is currently working towards a master’s degree in International Relations, aiming to make a global impact.
Bre serves as an example of the impact one can make as a Red Cross volunteer. Don’t miss the chance to join Bre and numerous other volunteers in making a difference down the street, across the country and around the world. Sign up today!
Red Cross Central California Blog 