The American Red Cross is part of the world’s largest humanitarian network. In nearly 200 countries, a Red Cross, Red Crescent or Red Crystal society works to alleviate people’s suffering. The Red Cross is a charitable organization, not a government agency. An average of 90 cents of every dollar Red Cross spends is invested in delivering care and comfort to those in need. Red Cross supporters provide a beacon of hope. From helping during disasters and ensuring access to lifesaving blood, to providing training to save lives and supporting military communities, the Red Cross is there when help can’t wait. Along with their humanitarian services, the Red Cross helps members of the military, veterans and their families prepare for, cope with, and respond to the challenges of military service.

The Red Cross month of celebration has been an annual tradition since 1943, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first Red Cross Month proclamation. The Red Cross has since used March to honor volunteers who make the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross possible — the individuals across the country who turn compassion into action continue to help others in times of crisis.

The Red Cross depends on volunteers and the generosity of people like you to deliver the organization’s mission services. You don’t have to wait until March of each year to help people in need. Your immediate and continued support can help save lives and make communities safer. There are many ways you can join the Red Cross mission. Join the Red Cross in their mission by volunteering, giving blood, learning lifesaving skills, or making a financial donation. Visit the Red Cross online to learn how to give financially, locations to donate blood, find trainings to learn lifesaving skills, and other volunteer opportunities to help in your local community and throughout the state of NC.

Did You Know? Community Service Leave can be used to cover your time away from work to give back to others and your community. Employees are encouraged to use the free Community Service Leave provided annually to participate in life giving through blood, bone marrow and organ donorship. Through this leave benefit, eligible employees may be given reasonable time off with pay for whole blood donation, pheresis procedures, and bone marrow transplant. Find out more about Community Service Leave by visiting the System Office HR website.