Giving Back in the New Year

Volunteer with the Red Cross and bring care, comfort and hope to your community

Every day, around the clock, Red Cross volunteers help families affected by disasters down the street, across the country, and around the globe. For people resolving to give back to their community in the New Year, the Red Cross has opportunities for you to help your friends and neighbors when it is needed most. 

The American Red Cross is inviting the community to attend a short “Introduction to Your Local Red Cross” orientation to learn about opportunities to help their friends and neighbors in disaster preparation, response, and recovery in South Carolina.

In 2015, the Red Cross assisted more than 12,000 people after disasters in South Carolina, primarily home fires and flooding, helping families with their immediate needs, such as temporary lodging, food, and clothing.

“We are able to quickly respond to home fires and help a family back on its feet simply because of the power of our everyday heroes—our volunteers." said Louise Welch Williams, regional chief executive officer for the American Red Cross in South Carolina.

The Red Cross is especially in need of volunteers that can be trained to be part of the Disaster Action Team to help families after disasters, such as home fires.  These volunteers respond to the scene of disasters and help provide resources, referrals to further assistance, and emotional support to those affected, ensuring they have food, shelter, and a sense of hope. 

“Red Cross volunteers are essential to being able to help our community,” explained Welch Williams. “Each volunteer has something to offer, and without volunteers, the Red Cross wouldn't be the strong organization that it is today.” 

Volunteers make up more than 90 percent of the Red Cross workforce. These volunteers represent a variety of backgrounds and receive free training. Volunteers with the Red Cross can set flexible schedules in volunteer positions that appeal to their specific skills or interests

VOLUNTEERING WITH THE RED CROSS Those interested in volunteering should visit www.redcross.org/sc to start their volunteer application and register to attend one of the upcoming “Introduction to Your Local Red Cross” classes. 

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