A Great Time To Volunteer

To the Editor:

Take a look at the American Red Cross Mission: to provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. In a sense, this view divides the population into two fluid groups — people who need help and people who want to help. The Red Cross is privileged to serve as a link between the two.

At the American Red Cross of Western Connecticut we’re celebrating April as Red Cross Volunteer Month. It’s a time to recognize the work of the 1,500 volunteers who have made it possible for the Red Cross to assist those neighbors who need help in our 17-town chapter. We’ve been busy this year as we have responded to over 30 fires or other emergencies involving over 85 individuals. Our volunteers were there to offer emergency shelter, clothing, and food at no cost to those who were affected.

Our Wheels Program propelled by volunteer drivers enables people without other means of transportation to get to their medical appointments. Volunteer installers back up our Lifeline Program, a personal response system designed to provide 24-hour assistance with a touch of a button.

If you’d like to help, this is a great time to volunteer. All of our programs need support, learn about the blood drive program or health and safety opportunities and much more. You’ll find volunteering for the Red Cross a rewarding experience. In a recent survey, 97 percent of Red Cross volunteers agreed that the Red Cross is an excellent place to volunteer and that their job gives them a sense of accomplishment; 98 percent said they’d recommend the Red Cross to their friends.

To learn more about Red Cross services and volunteer opportunities, contact us at 792-8200 and ask for Aurora Darroch, our volunteer coordinator. Thank you, and remember — Together We Can Save a Life!

Yours truly,

Kay Schreiber

Red Cross Volunteer and

Board of Directors Member

125 S King Street, Danbury                                           April 26, 2004