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.
As a member of the California AmeriCorps Disaster Team, Jordon Barney served the Pacific Coast Chapter over the past year. He connected with hundreds through our Preparedness Programs, helped coordinate volunteer trainings and smoke alarm installation events, and supported disaster relief efforts for Hurricane Ian 2022 and the California Floods in 2023. Get to know … Continue reading Why I Serve: AmeriCorps Team Member Jordon Barney
Many Red Crossers find gratification in deploying to disasters across the country and beyond. “But it’s just as valid to stay behind,” said Erick McCurdy, a longtime volunteer from Santa Barbara. “When everyone deploys, someone needs to stay behind and keep the lights on.” As a local disaster manager in his hometown, McCurdy is well-qualified … Continue reading Helping at Home . . . and Around the World
When Christina Adame contacted the Oxnard Fire Department seeking assistance with smoke alarms for her home, they referred her to the local Red Cross chapter. Understanding the urgency of her request, the response was swift. Volunteers Amanda and Drew Haver, dedicated Mass Care Team members, and Steve Medina from the Disaster Action Team promptly visited … Continue reading Home Fire Campaign Enhances Life Safety
By Kaytlin Crough, American Red Cross Senior Disaster Program Manager Pet preparedness is important to me because my dog Oakley came into my life during the Oak Fire in Mariposa. Unfortunately, the emergency conditions her owners found themselves in meant that they were unable to keep her safe during the wildfire evacuation. Because of her … Continue reading Pup-paredness is a Family Effort
When Christin Newlon (pictured left), an American Red Cross volunteer, saw the news about Hurricane Ian striking Florida in September 2022, she knew she wanted to help. She raised her hand to deploy from Paso Robles, California to Arcadia, Florida and she specifically made plans to go around Thanksgiving. Christin serves many roles at the … Continue reading Christin Newlon Helped Aid Heartbroken Residents in Hurricane Ian’s Wake
Are you feeling nervous about deploying to a disaster with the American Red Cross? Here's one volunteer's experience to help ease your worries. This past March, Lisa Harrold raised her hand to deploy for two weeks to support evacuees after severe flooding near the river had forced many to evacuate in Tulare County. This assignment … Continue reading Deployment Jitters? Lisa Harrold Shares Her First-Time Deployment Story
Registered Nurse Joins American Red Cross as a Volunteer, Encourages Others to Follow Suit By Christine Owens, Communications Volunteer Ernestine Lewis, a registered nurse for 33 years, retired in March 2023 but wanted to extend her commitment to serving the community by joining the renowned humanitarian organization. She hopes to make a meaningful difference in … Continue reading Nurse Ernestine Lewis Finds Home with the Red Cross
This Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we’re highlighting volunteers who play an important role in helping the American Red Cross fulfill its humanitarian mission every day. 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 … Continue reading Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Meet Alex Pham
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 … Continue reading The Future of the Red Cross: Meet Angad Gill
By Mason Anthony, Communications Volunteer More than 20,000 veterans serve as American Red Cross volunteers. One of those volunteers is Ray Quintana, a long-term American Red Cross volunteer and Vietnam Veteran, who recently was a passenger on a Central Valley Honor Flight. He joined 67 other veterans who traveled to Washington D.C. to see the … Continue reading Celebrating Military Appreciation Month: Ray Quintana
Red Cross Central California Blog 