Probably one of the best-known volunteer organizations in the world, the American Red Cross provides disaster services (for people affected by everything from house fires to natural disasters), organizes blood drives, assists in emergency communication between military service personnel and their families, and provides services – such as counseling - for veterns.

The Red Cross was formed in 1905, “…chartered by Congress to “carry on a system of national and international relief in time of peace and apply the same in mitigating the sufferings caused by pestilence, famine, fire, floods, and other great national calamities, and to devise and carry on measures for preventing the same.” It remains a non-governmental organization.

Volunteers can get involved in the Red Cross in a myriad of ways, starting by identifying their local office or using Volunteer Match to look for specific opportunities.

In Chicago, for example, volunteers can express interest and train to participate in administrative support, disaster relief, event planning, fund raising, and youth programs, among other things. First, you need to do the volunteer self-assessment, then fill out an application and proceed with an interview. It’s perhaps not volunteering per se, but you can also donate blood.

If you’re interested in volunteering and can’t leave home just yet, volunteering with the Red Cross is one way to gain some experience and put your energy towards a good cause at the same time.
Stay tuned for a profile of the international arm of this organization: the International Committee of the Red Cross.