Red Cross celebrates volunteerism

Van Wert independent/Red Cross information

If the last decade is any indication, people worldwide rely on humanitarian aid during times of great need. And that’s where the American Red Cross comes in.

For 130 years, the American Red Cross has helped individuals and families prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. And each spring, the U.S. President acknowledges the American Red Cross and encourages volunteerism by issuing a proclamation that declares March as Red Cross Month.

“We’re proud of our history and the volunteers, employees and supporters who make our mission possible,” said Sharyn Whitman, CEO for the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross. “That’s why we make a special time each year to celebrate their contributions, and to welcome more community members as Red Cross volunteers.”

In 1881, 60-year-old Clara Barton broadened the scope of the Red Cross from an organization that provided relief to wounded military members to one that provided relief to disaster victims, too. And for a half-century or more, the Red Cross has operated a national blood distribution system that enables the organization to quickly send blood anywhere it’s needed after meeting local needs first.

Today, Red Cross Month celebrates Red Cross volunteers in areas like blood donation, disaster relief, health and safety training, and support to military members and their families. The Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region is among 36 Red Cross Blood Regions nationwide. Each year, those Regions work together to collect more than 6 million units of blood from about 4 million volunteer donors.

“March is a time we say thank you to Red Cross volunteers for the contributions they make to our nation and the world,” said Whitman. “Whether you choose to give blood, volunteer your time, or support Red Cross programs and services, you’ll feel good knowing you’re helping to change lives, starting with your own.”

Upcoming area blood drives:

Friday, March 18, from 1-6 p.m. in the Van Wert Health Center, 140 Fox Road in Van Wert.