Red Cross Central California Blog
The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.
Julianne Abbott is a Lifelong Volunteer Determined to Help Others By Alison Votaw, Red Cross Communications Volunteer Julianne Abbott has dedicated her life to helping those in need and shows no signs of slowing down. She has been to Africa and Asia several times over the course of her life to help refugees in war-torn … Continue reading Retired Volunteers Like Julianne Abbott Show No Signs of Slowing Down
Just two months ago, Steve Medina and scores of local volunteers were supporting the Ventura County community during the Mountain Fire. At that time, American Red Cross Los Angeles Region volunteers traveled north to assist and lend a hand when it was needed most. Never missing an opportunity to return a favor, Medina immediately volunteered … Continue reading Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Lifelong Camarillo resident Kim Price-Marczuk has deep roots in her community. It was these local bonds that led her to become a volunteer with the Red Cross. “My former high school advisor was [volunteering] and posting pictures (on Facebook), so I messaged him and asked ‘How do I get involved in the Red Cross?’” Two … Continue reading Ready to Serve – Near and Far
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. … Continue reading Your Global Impact Can Start Locally: One Volunteer’s Journey with the American Red Cross
Standing amidst a surreal landscape of ash and destruction is the Mason home. All that remains of their neighbor’s homes on either side and across the street are naked chimneys and the burned-out hulks of automobiles. “We are very grateful and somewhat surprised that our home was spared,” said Wil Mason of the house she … Continue reading This Neighborhood Will Rise from the Ashes
Miyoshi Higa snapped this photo of the approaching Mountain Fire as she evacuated her home Volunteer Christine Rosso comforts Miyoshi Higa at the Red Cross shelter in Camarillo, Ca. Higa evacuated her home with just minutes to spare as the fast-moving Mountain Fire threatened her neighborhood. “I smelled smoke and thought my neighbor was cooking,” … Continue reading Families Find Refuge from Disastrous Fire Storm
When Erin Huey retired from the military, she moved backed to Simi Valley, California, so she could reconnect with family, most importantly, her brother John. “He loves that they’re back together, spending time together,” said John’s wife Lisa. “That was the icing on the cake for him.” Erin quickly re-established her roots, working as an … Continue reading Sister’s Quick Action and CPR Save Brother’s Life
By Alison Votaw, Communications Volunteer Susan Searey relies on her strengths to make a lasting impact with her local American Red Cross Chapter. These efforts were recognized earlier this year at the Kern County and Eastern Sierra Chapter Volunteer Recognition Awards. Susan was honored with the Disaster Preparedness Award for her outstanding contributions to the … Continue reading Preparing Her Neighbors’ Homes One Smoke Alarm at a Time
“I am a firm believer that united communities are stronger and more resilient.” By: Andrea Manokian, Red Cross Communications Volunteer As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, the American Red Cross honors the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities to our society. From disaster responders to dedicated blood donors, the impact of Hispanic heritage is … Continue reading The Sky is the Limit for Leticia Leon
By Alison Votaw, Communications Volunteer Ten deployments in a just over a year's span is impressive for any American Red Cross volunteer, but for Deborah Blaze, Deb as her friends call her, it's just the beginning. As Deb considered her options after retirement, a friend noted her high energy lifestyle and recommended the Red Cross. … Continue reading “I love to serve.” A Disaster Responder’s Journey Across the County
Red Cross Central California Blog 