Translating Compassion

Renato Fuentes

By John Rose, Red Cross volunteer

The American Red Cross is part of the largest humanitarian network in human history. The National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies relieve human suffering in over 192 countries, thereby allowing each staff member and volunteer to make a difference no matter where they live. Renato Fuentes, a multicultural communications manager, understands this and has come to embody the Red Cross’ international spirit. 

Renato’s history with the Red Cross began near Mexico City, where he grew up. “In Mexico, the Red Cross has a very great reputation,” said Renato. “It’s going to sound very cliché, but it’s been one of my dreams to work for the Red Cross.” 

Enamored with the organization’s impact, Renato joined the Mexican Red Cross, where he underwent training to become a paramedic. He also participated in volunteer activities like teaching preventive measures in schools and planting trees. 

Towards the end of 2021, Renato moved to the United States and settled in Nashville, Tennessee. He soon began looking for opportunities with the American Red Cross and in early 2022 joined the ranks as a volunteer Spanish translator, public affairs representative, and editor. “I really liked this position because it had something to do with my background. I have a bachelor’s in languages and linguistics,” Renato said. 

He quickly excelled in this role, taking on more responsibilities and even becoming a team leader. This April, he accepted a position to become a multicultural communications manager for the Red Cross national multi-cultural communications team. “It’s a lot of responsibility, but it’s also very rewarding,” said Renato. “Our translations don’t just stay in the department; they don’t just stay in the region; they go to the entire country.” 

With this new perspective, Renato has spoken up about the importance of recruiting more bilingual speakers to the American Red Cross, particularly to help better serve our Spanish-speaking communities, especially during times of disaster. 

“This goes beyond translations. It just must be addressed somehow,” said Renato. “We can translate a flyer about a blood drive, but what happens when Spanish-only speakers go to the blood drive and then there’s no one there who can translate for them?” 

Renato Fuentes's journey from Mexico to the U.S. is a story of passion and a global perspective that underscores the core values of the Red Cross.  

Currently, there is a great need for bilingual English/Spanish-speaking volunteers who are willing to serve as disaster responders in the Tennessee Region. These volunteers would be critical in serving mission delivery to communities that otherwise would be difficult to assist. To learn how you can make a difference go to RedCross.org/Tennessee