BURLINGTON — It’s National Volunteer Week (April 21-27) and the American Red Cross of Northern New England is recognizing the work of the selfless individuals here in Vermont who generously give their valuable time to support people in need.

Across the country, more than 275,000 Red Cross volunteers serve their communities by responding to thousands of disasters of all sizes; supporting the collection of blood to help patients receive the critical care they need; supporting members of the military and their families; helping communities prepare for emergencies around the globe and much more.

In 2022, Red Cross volunteers in Vermont responded to 142 local disasters and assisted 481 Vermonters who faced emergency situations. That same year, they trained 6,662 people in lifesaving skills, installed 342 free smoke alarms and provided 664 services to military members, veterans and their families.

In July 2023, flooding devastated Vermont and hundreds of homes were destroyed. Red Cross deployed 300 to support those affected. Together with partners, the agency and many of its volunteers delivered 28,000 meals, 34,000 relief items and provided 986 overnight stays for 200 residents in 4 shelter

“National Volunteer Week is time to honor these community heroes for their constant service and support,” said Eric Gagnon, Regional Volunteer Services Officer, Northern New England Region. “They are the true heart of the Red Cross.”

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Volunteers are more critical than ever as the climate crisis worsens and the need for shelter, hot meals, health services, emotional support grows. The Red Cross is now launching nearly twice as many relief operations for major disasters than it did a decade ago, and with hurricane and wildfire seasons on the horizon, we have a critical need to fill vital volunteer positions.

Disaster Action Team Member: As a Disaster Action Team volunteer, you can be a source of refuge and support when it’s needed most. From home fires to storms, unexpected emergencies happen every day, but you can help as a Red Cross volunteer.

Shelter Services: Support the day-to-day activities within an emergency shelter by helping with reception, registration, feeding, dormitory, information or other areas within a shelter. Free online training will be provided.

Disaster Health Services: These valuable volunteers use their professional skills as licensed healthcare providers to deliver hands-on care to people in shelters. There is also a need for Mental Health Services volunteers.

Visit redcross.org/VolunteerNNE to get started today. Training is free, but the hope you provide as a Red Cross volunteer to people in need is priceless.

The Red Cross also invites the public to sign up to become a volunteer blood or platelet donor. To schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets, people can download the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).