By Steve Medina, American Red Cross Volunteer, Public Affairs
On August 1, 2025, the Ventura Veterans Stand Down took place at the Ventura Veterans Center, organized in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs. This vital outreach event brought together community agencies and volunteers to serve Veterans in need—particularly those experiencing homelessness or navigating life after service.
The American Red Cross Ventura County Chapter contributed 48 dedicated volunteers to support the event. Our team managed a wide range of responsibilities including:
- Ground Control & Logistics: Coordinating event setup and breakdown
- Coffee & Meal Stations: Keeping Veterans and volunteers nourished
- Donation Booths: Distributing essential supplies
- Nurses Station: Offering onsite health guidance
- Veteran Guides: Personally assisting Veterans in accessing services
I was honored to serve as one of 16 Veteran Guides that day. My first assignment was Mr. Alan Bolton, a 93-year-old Korean War Air Force Veteran from Thousand Oaks, accompanied by his wife Marilyn, his partner of more than 50 years. Alan’s mission that day was clear: to find a local urgent care facility closer to home. Up until now, he had been driving from Thousand Oaks to Ventura for his medical care.
Army Veteran Clifford Palacios
We visited several booths, but none could provide a solution. Unexpectedly, it was the Red Cross medical team—our own group—who found a nearby urgent care that could meet Alan’s needs. His relief was palpable, and the gratitude shared by both Alan and Marilyn stayed with me.
Alan’s son, an Army Veteran, lives in San Diego. I have no doubt he’d be proud of how his father was treated that day—with dignity, compassion, and care. Afterwards, I had the opportunity to visit with Clifford Palacios, an eight-year Army Veteran, who traveled from Reseda.
As the day came to a close, I was reminded of a quote I’d seen earlier on social media:
“If Clara Barton were here, what would she do?”
A simple, powerful reminder of the Red Cross legacy we carry forward.
Later, Afghanistan Veteran and fellow volunteer Elizabeth Baker approached the group. She handed out Red Cross pins inscribed with “Service to the Armed Forces.” I’ve received many tokens from deployments across the country—but this one meant the most. Not for the object itself, but for what it symbolized: service, connection, and a shared commitment to those who’ve served. That’s why we volunteer. That’s why we show up.
Red Cross Central California Blog 