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 Jake Dean, Red Cross Communications Volunteer For Wesley Hammer, volunteering with the American Red Cross is more than just giving back—it’s a calling. From his first experience as a Disaster Action Team (DAT) responder to taking on leadership roles in disaster relief efforts, Wesley has dedicated his time and energy to supporting communities in … Continue reading Making an Impact: Wesley Hammer’s Red Cross Volunteer Story
By Cynthia Rodriguez, Red Cross Communications Volunteer How are we helping communities in disaster-prone areas become more resilient? By partnering with mission-driven people like Aide Hernandez through our local Community Adaptation Program (CAP). For Aide, her deep commitment to her community is personal. Born and raised in Poplar, Tulare County, Aide is no stranger to … Continue reading Aide Hernandez is a Missing Piece of the Recovery Puzzle
By Alison Votaw, Red Cross Volunteer Like so many dedicated American Red Cross volunteers, Noor Qwfan's unwavering commitment to her community blossomed long before she officially joined the Red Cross. She took the initiative to start a support group for young women in her mosque, empowering them to navigate the challenges of applying for college … Continue reading Breaking Barriers and Building Trust: Noor Qwfan’s Red Cross Story
“The Red Cross gives hope in a time of chaos.”- Miller Newlon By: Andrea Manokian, Red Cross Communications Volunteer As wildfires tore through Los Angeles County, leaving devastation in their wake, American Red Cross volunteers, Miller and Christin Newlon, didn’t hesitate to step up. With nearly 30 years of experience as a certified EMT, Miller … Continue reading Helping in Crisis: A Couple’s Impact on LA Fire Relief Efforts
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
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
Red Cross Central California Blog 