Service and Commitment: John Navarro is a Catalyst for Change and Community

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By Andrew De La Rosa, Communications Volunteer During Military Family Appreciation Month and National Native American Heritage Month, the American Red Cross is recognizing Red Crossers who continue their service in local communities across the country. Since our founding more than 140 years ago, veterans have stepped up to support their communities after their active-duty … Continue reading Service and Commitment: John Navarro is a Catalyst for Change and Community

From Evacuee to Volunteer, Kenya Deto Brings Comfort to Disaster Survivors

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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

Talking Story with Sharon Shou

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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

Helping at Home . . . and Around the World

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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

Home Fire Campaign Enhances Life Safety

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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

Christin Newlon Helped Aid Heartbroken Residents in Hurricane Ian’s Wake

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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

Deployment Jitters? Lisa Harrold Shares Her First-Time Deployment Story

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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

Nurse Ernestine Lewis Finds Home with the Red Cross

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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

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Meet Alex Pham

Posted on by redcrosscentralcalifornia

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

The Future of the Red Cross: Meet Angad Gill

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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