Letter from Northeast Tennessee Executive Director, Glenda Bobalik - March 2015

March is Red Cross month. This is a time to recognize our everyday heroes- the special people that give their time and talent to make lives better.

Everyday heroes help those in need throughout Northeast Tennessee. These heroes are our volunteers, our blood donors, people who take our classes or those who make a financial contribution to help us help others. You are our heroes. Thank you.

March has been recognized as Red Cross Month for more than 70 years. All of our presidents, including President Barack Obama, have designated March as Red Cross Month to recognize how the American Red Cross helps people across the country and around the world.

The Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 disasters big and small in this country every year. We provide 24-hour support to members of the military, veterans and their families at home and around the world, collect and distribute about 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply, and train millions of people in first aid, water safety and other life-saving skills.

Here in the Northeast Tennessee area, volunteers responded to 319 local emergencies providing help to  821 families, assisted 288 military families, facilitated preparedness presentations to 25,814 individuals and trained 12,346 people in lifesaving skills such as CPR and First Aid. Our volunteers and donors who make this service possible are truly amazing.

This month is a great time for people to become part of the Red Cross.  They can become a Red Cross volunteer, work on a preparedness plan for their household, give blood, or take a Red Cross class. Take the time this month to talk to your friends and neighbors about what you do for the Red Cross and invite them to join our team.

The Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on donations of time, money and blood to do its work. An average of 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs. We are able to provide that level of value due to the dedication of our volunteers.  Everyday heroes serving our community.  You.

Thank you for all that you do for the American Red Cross of Northeast Tennessee and the communities we serve.