American Red Cross names Volunteer of the Year and Rookie of the Year
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Volunteers are considered the backbone of the American Red Cross, the organization knowns they could not do the things they do without the support of there many volunteers from around the world.
from responding to a disaster at a moments notice, to being a helping hand while others give blood for the first time, showcasing a welcoming smile the entire time.
Because of the incredible support from their volunteers, the American Red Cross gives out two different awards to their volunteers for their continued dedication and work for the organization.
The Red Cross hands out the volunteer of the year and the rookie of the year award for their committed volunteers. This year the volunteer of the year is Susan Jett. When the Red Cross asked Jett why she works with the Red Cross she says, “it is a way to give back that makes my heart and soul smile, gives me a sense of purpose.” American Red Cross executive director Micheal Sullivan gives his thoughts on why Jett was recognized for her work saying,
“she has truly done some outstanding work for the American Red Cross. She’s been a volunteer since 2010 and has volunteered over 3,000 hours with the American Red Cross and has filled a number of roles especially on the disaster cycle service side.” Sullivan says she helps, “with our duty officers so as people call in after home fires or after needs she’s answering that phone helping connect them with people that will help assist them in their time of need.”
The American Red Cross rookie of the year is Anna Bender, Bender regularly donated blood prior to her time working with the Red Cross. As for why she began working with the Red Cross, Bender says “It’s important and I believe in it [the importance of blood donation].” Upon retirement, Bender decided that working with the Red Cross would be a “good way to get out.”
As Rookie of the Year suggests, Anna Bender is in her first year of volunteering with the Red Cross. She started donating blood regularly after she was introduced to it through a former coworker. “It’s important and I believe in it [the importance of blood donation].” Bender explained. Upon retirement, volunteering naturally felt like the next step and a “good way to get out.” As a Blood Donor Ambassador, Bender greets and registers donors at blood drives. “It’s nice to meet new people, talking to the young people” Bender said, “It’s a worthy cause.”
If you want to learn more about the American Red Cross click here or call 1-800 Red Cross
