At Wednesday's meeting, Mary Jane Thomsen, Executive Director of the American Red Cross-Northwest Wisconsin, spoke to the club about the numerous services that the Red Cross provides. The Red Cross was started by Clara Barton in 1861 (during the Civil War). The organization provides support to people affected by natural disasters and fires, and provides CPR education, collects and supports our national blood supply, and has numerous programs supporting the military. Nearly 20,000 people are assisted by the American Red Cross daily, and every two seconds, someone needs blood. This region provided over 35,000 units annually.
There are many ways you can support the Red Cross. One of the easiest ways is to give blood. You can also volunteer. According to their website, 90% of the Red Cross's total workforce is made up of volunteers. They are always looking for volunteers in blood collection support or their disaster action team (the team that responds and helps people who are forced out of their homes due to fires, storms, and other disasters). Check out their website: Northwest | Wisconsin Region | American Red Cross for more information.
The Red Cross is hosting a Heroes Breakfast on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 7:45 a.m. at the Florian Gardens. The Heroes Breakfast was established to raise public awareness of local heroes and volunteers who carry out the mission of the Red Cross every day. Tickets are $50, and all proceeds go to the Red Cross of Northwest Wisconsin. To reserve your seat, check out their website at: Northwest Wisconsin Heroes Breakfast | Red Cross.
Thank you, Mary Jane, for this wonderful program. And thank you to La Vone Sneen for organizing this informative program!