When was the last time you took part in a community service project? What is your “why” for volunteering? Just a few weeks ago, our family was out serving the homeless in the Downtown Dallas area.
American Red Cross Volunteers
In fact, we’ve been serving the homeless as a family for over 15 years. I was pregnant with our third child when my dad decided to purchase an old church van and serve food out of it.
Each month, we would gather clothes donations from friends and family, make sandwiches, and head downtown to serve. Our older two children would hand sandwiches, chips and drinks out of the front window.
Now, our numbers have increased as far as the group of people who serve, as well as the number of homeless we feed each time we go.
It’s been a humbling experience for our family, as a whole, over the years. Especially through our own trials.
For example, right after our number four was born, my husband unexpectedly lost his job. It was just weeks before Christmas. We had no insurance and no income. It took him months to find a job.
We found support through our family, church, and local community food pantry. Without the help and services of others, we would have not been able to support our kids.
Years later, just after we had our fifth and final baby, my mom was diagnosed with cancer. Although our serving projects slowed down a bit, my mom refused to let us stop them completely.
In fact, once she was in remission, the serve projects took on a new life. We began having a theme each month and would dress to fit the part. My mom loved sewing costumes for everyone to wear.
And then, in 2017 my mom passed away, and we knew we had to continue her legacy. Therefore, we still get downtown as often as possible to serve the homeless.
The 15+ years of serving others coupled with the help we’ve received during our trials has more then opened our eyes to the needs of others around us.
Recently, through a partnership with the American Red Cross, I’ve been able to find new ways to help others in my community and around the world.
Red Cross Volunteers are the backbone of the organization and they are always looking for new volunteers. With a wide range of interests and time commitments, there’s truly something for everyone.
American Red Cross volunteer opportunities include:
- Leadership Roles
- Blood Drive Volunteer
- Disaster Action Team
- Instructors
- Hospital Volunteer
- Armed Forces Caseworker
- Special Events
- First Aid Team
- Grant Researching/Writing
- Clerical
- International Tracing Services
- and more!
Are you a Nurse? The American Red Cross has opportunities especially for you!
Are you a youth? 25% of Red Cross volunteers are age 24 or younger. Don’t let your age stop you. Your youth is no barrier for helping people in need!
Want to volunteer as a group or business? Your local chapter can help you find specific opportunities in you area once you’ve gathered your team!
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to get involved and volunteer with the American Red Cross.
Whatever your “why” is, today is a great day to volunteer!
Not sure where you should volunteer? Take a short quiz to find the volunteer role right for you.
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