American Red Cross

Since its founding in 1881 by visionary leader Clara Barton, the American Red Cross has been the nation's premier emergency response organization. As part of a worldwide movement that offers neutral humanitarian care to the victims of war, the American Red Cross distinguishes itself by also aiding victims of devastating natural disasters.

Over the years, the organization has expanded its services, always with the aim of preventing and relieving suffering. Today, the American Red Cross offers compassionate services in:

*Support and comfort for military members and their families

*Provide community education that promote health and safety - i.e. youth & adult classes on First Aid/CPR, life guarding, babysitting and caregiving, or becoming more prepared for a disaster (just to name a few)

*Assistance after a house fire by providing some of the basics & shelter

*Respond to natural disasters

The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.

The American Red Cross, through its strong network of volunteers, donors and partners, is always there in times of need. We aspire to turn compassion into action so that...

...all people affected by disaster across the country and around the world receive care, shelter and hope;

...our communities are ready and prepared for disasters;

...all members of our armed services and their families find support and comfort whenever needed; and

Volunteering (http://www.redcross.org/support/volunteer) More than 90 percent of our total work force is composed of volunteers. We rely on altruistic people like you to carry out our humanitarian work.

Ways to Donate (http://www.redcross.org/support/donating-fundraising/donations) We rely on the generosity of the American public to help people in need every day. Essentially, we rely on you.

Taking, Teaching or Hosting a Class (http://www.redcross.org/support/classes) More than 9 million people will learn lifesaving skills from the Red Cross each year. People come to us for emergency or disaster preparedness information while, others will learn that war is more complicated than a video game through international humanitarian law education.