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.
By Alison Votaw, Communications Volunteer There's one moment that Kenya will never forget - it's the moment that inspired her to give back to the Red Cross. The "A-Rock Fire" in 1990 was an event that forever changed the course of Kenya's life. It was the second-largest fire in the history of Yosemite, and it … Continue reading From Evacuee to Volunteer, Kenya Deto Brings Comfort to Disaster Survivors
National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions and cultural heritage of Hispanic and Latino Americans. We could not deliver the Red Cross mission without our many Hispanic staff, volunteers and donors. Among our dedicated Red Crossers is Marcos Osorio, a volunteer on our Communications and Latino Engagement Teams. Here … Continue reading Marcos Osorio is Building a Legacy of Service
By Anna Kumor, Communications Volunteer Sharon Shou, has served as an American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Volunteer and has deployed to disasters six times, including two this year. Sharon played a role in the Cultural Awareness pre-deployment training of disaster responders heading to Guam after Typhoon Mawar struck this summer and also deployed to … Continue reading Talking Story with Sharon Shou
This month, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and the many Red Cross volunteers who give their time and talent to our mission. Volunteers like Janessa Paez, who are driven with passion to serve others. Janessa is on a mission to promote preparedness education and is committed to building a safer and more resilient community for … Continue reading Meet Janessa, a Champion of Preparedness and Community
By Jordan Sherwood, Communications Volunteer Steve Medina first got involved with the American Red Cross mission as a platelet donor. Since 2018, he regularly makes a commitment to donate platelets more than a dozen times a year. “I have many reasons to donate platelets," shared Steve. "Losing friends and family to this deadly disease of … Continue reading Red Cross Volunteer’s Impact Exemplifies Preparedness and Dedication
Siana's dedication to inclusivity, preparedness and community service represents the Red Cross's mission to alleviate suffering and create a more compassionate world. Her story serves as an inspiration to all, emphasizing the importance of embracing heritage and fostering diversity in our shared humanitarian efforts.
The American Red Cross declared a national blood shortage on Sept. 11, citing a critically low blood supply level that dropped nearly 25% since early August. Since the plea for more blood donors went out, the Red Cross has seen an increase in donations and is thankful to everyone who has rolled up a sleeve … Continue reading When times get tough, blood donors step up
This month, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and the many Red Crossers who give their time and talent to our mission. Employees like Diana Manzo-Prado are driven with passion to serve their community. Diana recently sat down with us to share about her culture, what it means to her and how it has impacted her work with the Red Cross.
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
Red Cross Central California Blog 