Red Cross Volunteer Information

The American Red Cross utilizes volunteers in many capacities. In 2010, the Red Cross estimates that 96 percent of the organization's work force is composed of volunteers. Red Cross volunteers collect half of the United States' blood supply through blood drives, and other volunteers deliver important family messages to United States armed forces members. Finally, more than 30,000 Red Cross volunteers help to direct local chapters' community and national efforts.

Community Education Volunteers

Red Cross volunteers teach health and safety courses, such as adult, child, and infant CPR and first aid. These volunteers also conduct workplace safety and sport safety courses. If you enjoy working with children, you can qualify to present water safety and children's first aid courses to youngsters in school, church and community group settings, notes the Northeast Louisiana Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Disaster Relief Volunteers

When natural disasters such as tornadoes or hurricanes strike, Red Cross disaster relief volunteers respond to victims at local and national levels. You'll complete a disaster services course to prepare for this role. Train for emergency operations center work, emergency response vehicle operation, and mass casualty disaster work. If you have a medical certification, you may find opportunities in health services, states the Northwest North Carolina Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Other Volunteer Opportunities

The Red Cross is involved in community health work throughout the United States. For example, Cleveland County, North Carolina HIV/AIDS volunteers educate the public about disease transmission risks, and assist patients and families with illness management. Volunteer to drive essential medical personnel to work in bad weather, or to transport emergency blood supplies from central blood banks to local hospitals. Finally, you can staff Red Cross safety exhibits at community health fairs.

Volunteer Requirements

You can become a Red Cross volunteer by completing a few simple steps. The Morgan-Lawrence County, Alabama chapter notes that adult volunteers must be 19 or older. Youth volunteers from 13 to 18 are accepted with special permission. Complete an application and a personal interview. You'll also need to pass an online background check conducted at no cost to you. When you have met these criteria, you can schedule your volunteer training.

Volunteer Benefits

Your Red Cross volunteer efforts can provide at least three concrete benefits. The Coastal Carolina Chapter, in eastern North Carolina, notes that you can maintain skills that may serve you in future paid employment. When you apply for another position, your Red Cross experience can augment your resume, especially if you have served in a managerial role. Finally, your experience can serve as preparation for a nonprofit staff position.