Letter from Southeast Tennessee Executive Director, Julia Wright - January 2017

Wow! 2016 came to an eventful close, and our Southeast Tennessee Red Cross volunteers exhibited their very finest in response to numerous disasters including the Woodmore school bus accident, tornadoes in McMinn, Sequatchie and Polk counties and the wildfire operation in Gatlinburg.  To say we were busy would definitely be an understatement.  I can't express enough my gratitude and appreciation for the long hours, hard work and dedication our volunteers give when helping our community during crisis.

As we tended to the people affected by the disasters both locally and in our neighboring communities, our Service to Armed forces volunteers collected over 5000 cards this holiday season from members of our local community. Our Red Cross volunteers provided children the opportunity to make handmade cards at the United Way's Family day at Chattanooga's Hamilton Place Mall.  Our community partners at Whirlpool CXC of Cleveland also created and collected cards from associates and their families. All cards were distributed to our local active duty and reserve military as well as the veterans in our area.

The end of 2016 was not easy for our chapter, yet it was incredibly rewarding to see everyone come together in support of one another and of our community. We are blessed with the hands and hearts of so many that serve on a moment’s notice.

 I look forward to working together with each of you in the new year!