Hello from your local United Way! We’ve been busy making the most critical decisions-which agencies will be funded with donor dollars raised this fall. That is an important job being done by a committed group of local volunteers, the Northwoods United Way Board of Directors. United Way has made it a priority to help agencies develop their boards and volunteers, because we know how important volunteerism is! On Wednesday, June 19, the Northwoods United Way will co-host Northwoods Networking. At this session, agencies will network while focusing on two important subjects, fundraising and volunteers. Volunteers are the hallmark of any successful non-profit organization. In highlighting an agency, it was clear that one we help fund relies heavily on local volunteers to help those in dire need. This month, we are highlighting The American Red Cross.

The American Red Cross makes its mark in north central and western Wisconsin promoting preparedness, spreading hope and providing resources in times of emergency. In order to impact various facets of communities, the Red Cross relies on the time and passion of hundreds of local and national volunteers.

We all know that nationally, the Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 disasters per year, providing shelter, food, emotional support and other necessities. It provides 24-hour support to members of the military, veterans and their families; collects and distributes about 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply; and trains more than seven million people in first aid, water safety and other life-saving skills every year. Last year in north central and western Wisconsin, the American Red Cross responded to 462 incidents in which 1,287 individuals were assisted by more than 950 Red Cross trained volunteers. The support and time given by volunteers made all this possible.

At the Red Cross, there are opportunities to match a variety of interests and availability. Disaster responders assist with local emergencies, including house fires, floods or tornados. Health and safety instructors are vital in teaching life-saving classes in CPR/first aid and babysitting courses. Administrative help is always needed to fuel our programs and outreach. The Red Cross utilizes volunteers to help with communication and relations between service members and their families. The Red Cross is committed to being present and active in all communities and thanks to Red Cross volunteers, this is happening.

Red Cross volunteers make a difference. They provide hope and strength during times of uncertainty while also providing knowledge and resources to prepare for and prevent emergency situations. They touch the lives of individuals, families and communities. Red Cross volunteers are really the core of the mission of the Red Cross. The Red Cross needs volunteers of all backgrounds and skill sets. Take the steps to become a Red Cross volunteer today and help your community! For more information on our volunteer opportunities and to apply, check out www.redcross.org/volunteer. For more information on the Northwoods United Way, check out northwoodsunitedway.org. Please take time to volunteer in your community today. Have a fun and safe Fourth of July holiday!

For more agency information, visit northwoodsunitedway.org or visit facebook.com/northwoodsunitedway.