Red Cross East Georgia Chapter

Boutique in Athens Shows Local Charities Some Love

2012-01-30T11:44:00.001-05:00

Entourage Clothing & Gifts, a boutique located on S. Milledge Ave in Athens, Ga., will be celebrating Valentine's Day by giving away $2,500 to a local charity through its Facebook sweepstakes. The American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter is one of the candidates to receive this donation.

The East Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross supports 14 counties and all of its funding "comes from individual contributions, corporate donations, United Way, and fund-raising events [since] the Red Cross is not federally funded." The donation from Entourage would continue to allow the Chapter to help families in need when disaster comes through town.

You can help! All you have to do is follow these four easy steps:

“Like” Entourage's Facebook page
Visit the “$2,500 Giveaway” section on the sidebar
Click “Enter Sweepstakes” and allow the application to open through your Facebook
Register on the page and type in the “American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter” as your selected charity to win the donation

Make sure to enter the sweepstakes before February 29 so that your vote will count. After you have entered the sweepstakes, share it with your friends! What better way to spread some Valentine’s Day love than by helping the Chapter win the charity sweepstakes?

-Nina Kamber

SARC Raises Over $3000 in Letter Campaign

2012-01-27T13:35:00.000-05:00

The Students of the American Red Cross at UGA recently participated in a fundraising campaign in an effort to support the East Georgia Chapter’s emergency services to families within its 14 county district. Members of the organization submitted addresses of their friends and family members. Then designated SARC representatives sent formal, typed letters to the given addresses, personalized with the name of each person.

The letters encouraged friends and family to donate money to the organization and help them reach their fundraising goals for the year. Although they didn’t quite make their goal, SARC was able to raise well over $3,000 with the letter-writing campaign. “We all had hoped for more,” said SARC advisor and Executive Director of the East Georgia Chapter, Jeff Taylor, “but based on the science it’s really quite good.” Eight students participated in gathering addresses and SARC members hope that even more students will participate next time. The letter campaign, along with other new fundraising initiatives from the SARC organization, has raised a total of $7,000 towards their $15,000 goal for the school year.

- Shelby Rudd

Twelve Days of Safety

2011-12-18T10:22:00.001-05:00

As you celebrate the holidays and prepare for the new year ahead, take the following tips into account during the Twelve Days of Safety to keep this season safe, happy and bright!

Ready-to-go Emergency Preparedness Kit

1. Prepare vehicle for traveling to grandmother’s house. Build an emergency kit and include items such as blankets or sleeping bags, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, compass and road maps, shovel, tire repair kit and pump, extra clothing, flares, and a tow rope.

2. Drive the sleigh and reindeer safely. Avoid driving in a storm. If travel is a must, let someone know the destination, the route being taken to get there, and how long it should take to arrive. If the car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along the predetermined route.

3. Help prevent the spread of the flu. Stay home if sick. Wash hands with soap and water as often as possible, or use an alcohol-based hand rub. Cover the nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing, and throw the tissue away after use. If a tissue isn’t available, someone should cough or sneeze into their elbow, not their hands.

4. Follow Santa’s fashion lead – dress in layers. When it’s cold outside, layered lightweight clothing will keep a person warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves and a hat will prevent loss of body heat.

5. Use a Red Cross-trained babysitter when attending holiday festivities. Red Cross-certified babysitters learn to administer basic first aid; properly hold and feed a child; take emergency action when needed and monitor safe play. Some may be certified in Infant and Child CPR.

6. Avoid danger while roasting chestnuts on an open fire. Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If leaving the kitchen even for a short period of time, turn off the stove. This is important because unattended cooking causes nearly 90 percent of all kitchen fires.

7. Be a lifesaver during the holidays. The Red Cross recommends at least one person in every household should take first aid and CPR/AED training. Visit www.redcross.org/training for details and to register.

8. Designate a driver or skip the holiday cheer. Buckle up, slow down, and don’t drive impaired. If someone plans on drinking, designate a driver who won’t drink.

9. When the weather outside is frightful, heat the home safely. Never use a stove or oven to heat the home. Never leave portable heaters or fireplaces unattended. Install smoke alarms.

10. Cut down on heating bills without being a Grinch. Get the furnace cleaned and change the filters. Make sure furniture isn’t blocking the heat vents. Close off any rooms not in use and turn off the heat in those rooms. Turn down the thermostat and put on a sweater.

11. Home for the holidays? Travel safely. Check the tire air pressure and make sure the windshield fluid is full. Be well rested and alert. Give full attention to the road – avoid distractions such as cell phones. If someone has car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible.

12. Resolve to Be Red Cross Ready in the New Year. Get ready now in case someone in the household faces an emergency in 2012.

A Runner's View of Sleighbell 2011

2011-12-13T16:43:00.010-05:00

With finals, work, relationships and everything else life seems to bring at full force this time of year, it is hard to remember what true joy feels like. Not the type of joy of making an "A" on an exam or the joy you get from going out with friends, but rather, the joy that makes you stop and remember why this life is so special. I had one of those moments on Saturday December 3, 2011 when I ran the annual American Red Cross East Georgia Sleighbell 5k race at Sandy Creek Park.

I woke up at 7:09 a.m. and rolled out of bed imagining what I could possibly wear that would keep me warm for the day's forecast- 34 degrees! After putting on my warmest socks, my tights normally reserved for skiing, a long sleeved t-shirt, a pullover and gloves, I ran out the door to find my car windshield frozen.

After pouring hot water on my windshield and remembering for a moment why I live in the South (I hate cold weather), I sped toward Sandy Creek Park. Arriving at the park, I found this picturesque landscape.

Amber Schreiner, a chapter public affairs intern and runner in Sleighbell 2011.

Fog stretched over the lake and created an air of mystery over the course while the sun fought its way through layers of dawn.

I was greeted by hundreds of beautiful people that were proud to wake up early and support the East Georgia Chapter while also staying in shape themselves. It is moments like these that make me truly grateful for the opportunity and privilege that I have. During the race, I tried to fight back my coaching instincts to tell everyone I passed (or that passed me), "Good job! Keep Going!"

Sprinting through the finish, I was filled with enthusiasm as finishers were gathered cheering for everyone else. Because running is really a personal competition, it seems support rather than hostility is always gathered at the finish line.

To my surprise, I ended up finishing 7th in my age group; but really, the beauty of the race was being reminded how wonderful this life can be if you let it.

The sunrise over Sandy Creek Park

Meet Carol Yeatts: Our Platelet Hero!

2011-12-05T11:54:00.000-05:00

Carol Yeatts, her grandson Caleb, and husband Steve.

Carol Yeatts has donated platelets and blood since her college years at Emory University. In recent years, Carol donates platelets as much as possible. As an O+ blood type, she realizes the important responsibility she has as a universal donor.

“I donate because platelets have a shorter shelf-life than blood and because they are especially needed for chemo-patients,” says Yeatts.

A single platelet donation can provide enough platelets for a full therapeutic dose for a patient in need. In fact, some platelet donations yield enough platelets for two or three therapeutic doses. By contrast, it takes four-to-six whole blood donations to produce a single therapeutic dose. In this way, Yeatts is helping to save lives every time she donates platelets!

Are you thinking about donating platelets?

Here are some important facts to know before you donate platelets:

· Platelet donations are collected at select American Red Cross Blood Donation Centers only.

· Donors should not take any aspirin or products containing aspirin 48 hours before donation. State regulations in New York require up to 3 days prior.

· You can donate up to 24 times per year.

· Plasma can be collected simultaneously with a platelet donation. Plasma can be collected every 28 days up to 13 times per year.

· The donation takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and may be a single or dual arm procedure depending on the collection device used.

· Call 1-800-RED-CROSS for platelet donation opportunities at a local American Red Cross Blood Donation Center near you.

· The Athens, Ga. location is located at 3525 Atlanta Hwy in the Academy Sports shopping center, and the office phone number is 706-543-8656.

· To pass the time while you donate, you may listen to music or simply relax during the donation process. Most American Red Cross Donation Centers also offer TVs or DVD players. Wi-Fi is also available at some locations.

· If you are a platelet donor, you can still make regular whole blood or double red cell donations. Both gifts are vitally important to patients with life threatening diseases.

· A platelet donation is also called a 'platelet apheresis' or 'platelet pheresis' donation.

Though the American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter doesn’t do blood or platelet donations at its Pulaski Street, Athens, Ga. location, we wanted to share some information about the platelet donation process to clear up any confusion!

To learn more about platelet donation, and listen to inspiring stories like Carol’s, watch the following video:

Safety in the Workplace

2011-11-07T14:57:00.001-05:00

According to the United States Department of Labor’s 2010 Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average employed American spends 7.5 hours at work during the week. That means the average person spends approximately half of his/her waking hours at the workplace. This statistic may not shock you but if your business is not prepared for an emergency you could be at risk for injury during those 7.5 hours each and every day.

We all take great care in making sure that our homes are safe and prepared for emergencies and possible weather disasters, but what about when we are on the job? Have you ever stopped to think what you would do if a tornado, hurricane or even a fire afflicted your office? What if someone fell when trying to reach a high shelf and was injured?Would you know what to do?

It is important for your office to have an emergency plan and instruct every employee to keep themselves safe in the event of a disaster. You also want to make sure that your office has a full First Aid Kit. A First Aid Kit goes beyond bandaging paper cuts; it could help save your own or the life of one of your co-workers in an emergency.

At your next office meeting have an emergency plan discussion. Know where you stand and what steps you must make to ensure the safety of every employee. You can learn more about these steps and other checklists for your workplace emergency preparedness here.

Finally, here is an entertaining video of what NOT to do to prepare for an emergency at your office.

Spotlight Series: American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet Member Darius Rucker

2011-11-02T13:26:00.000-04:00

The next American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet member in our spotlight series has conquered two genres of music over two decades. Beginning in 1986 with his rock band, Hootie & the Blow Fish, Darius Rucker swayed crowds with his deep intriguing voice.

In 1995, Rolling Stone acknowledged Rucker as the first African-American front man of an otherwise white rock band. Overcoming racial norms would become a pattern for Rucker when in 2008, he reintroduced himself to the world as a country singer. His single, “Don’t think I don’t think about it” became the first top 20 country hit recorded by an African American since 1988.

When Rucker isn’t topping the charts or defying racial norms, he can be found supporting good causes. In 2010, Rucker helped raise over $1.7 million to go towards the relief efforts in Nashville, Tennessee after the city was devastated by floods. A portion of these proceeds went directly to the American Red Cross, making Rucker an integral member of the celebrity council.

"Whether it is a call to action for blood drives, disaster relief, or just community outreach, the American Red Cross does an extraordinary job at not only meeting the immediate needs of a community, but also the preparation and planning for long-term support," says Rucker. "I am honored that they would include me in the Cabinet as a member and contributor."

Be Red Cross Ready for Fire in the Kitchen

2011-10-30T17:20:00.001-04:00

The most effective way to protect yourself and your home from fire is to identify and remove fire hazards. Sixty-five percent of home fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. During a home fire, working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives.

It has been found that most fires originate in the kitchen. Follow these steps to avoid a fire while cooking. Start by not wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.

A stove after a house fire.

Fire Safety Tips for the Kitchen:

• Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking. Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.

• Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

• Keep anything that can catch fire – pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

• Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.

• Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all the stoves, ovens and small appliances are turned off.

• Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once per year.

The Red Cross responded to more than 62,960 home fires during the 2011 fiscal year. House fires are the worst disaster threat to families in the United States. To learn how to prevent a fire in your home and how to keep members of your household safe, you can download The Red Cross Fire Prevention and Safety Checklist. Downloadable fact sheets are also available at http://www.redcross.org/ on how to be fire safe over the holidays, how to avoid home heating fires, candle safety, proper use of smoke alarms and teaching your children what to do in the event of a fire.

Greek Life raising money for the American Red Cross!

2011-10-26T16:51:00.001-04:00

This past Saturday marked the first Powder Puff Flag Football Tournament, a fundraising event coordinated by University of Georgia’s Delta Sigma Phi fraternity. All proceeds from the tournament went to the American Red Cross, the fraternity’s national philanthropy.

During the tournament, fraternity members served as referees, provided lunch and set up a first aid station for team participants. Five sororities participated in the intramural-style tournament with a minimum of seven players on each team. Alpha Gamma Delta proved champions of the day and took home the trophy although everyone present had a great time.

“This year was really about establishing the event; it was nice that we were able to give the American Red Cross some money,” said Brandon Breslin, philanthropy chair of the fraternity.

In appreciation, the Red Cross honored the members of Delta Sigma Phi for their generous donation. The fraternity seeks to expand the tournament next year in hopes of raising more money and also has a pageant, Miss Sorority Row, lined up for the Spring which will also benefit the Red Cross.

pictures to come soon!

Staying Prepared for Fire Prevention

2011-10-20T13:21:00.000-04:00

For many people, October is about fall festivals, changing leaves and crisp weather. What most people do not know, however, is that October is also Fire Prevention Month and the American Red Cross encourages individuals to take steps to lessen the risk of a fire in their home. Unfortunately, many people learn quickly just how devastating a fire can be. Red Cross volunteers have witnessed firsthand not only the physical damaging effects caused by fires, but also the emotional damage people experience as a result.

Disaster victim meets with Red Cross Disaster workers at the scene of an apartment fire.

During Fire Prevention Month, the Red Cross reminds everyone of the steps they should take if a fire breaks out in their own home.

The most important thing to remember if facing a fire is to:
GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 (or local emergency number).

Other important safety tips include:

To Prevent a Home Fire...
-Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
-Test them every month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
-Talk with all household members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.
-Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
-Keep items that can catch on fire at least three feet away from anything that gets hot, such as space heaters.

In Case of a Fire...
-Crawl low under smoke.
-Go to your outside meeting place and then call for help.
-If closed doors or handles are warm, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
-Use caution when using a portable fire extinguisher.

Remember the word PASS when using the extinguisher:

Pull the pin and hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you.

Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

A Red Cross volunteer offers assistance with a victim of a home fire.

For more information on disaster and emergency preparedness, please visit http://eastgeorgia.redcross.org/ or call the chapter house at 706-353-1645.

(Photos courtesy of redcross.org)

Student Organization sets goals for blood drives

2011-10-18T12:35:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, Students for the American Red Cross (SARC) kicked off their three-day blood drive, “Don’t be afraid of the dark, come donate with SARC.” The event, which continues through Wednesday, October 19, 2011 from 11 am to 5 pm, takes place in the Memorial Hall ballroom on the University of Georgia campus. It is one of four that the organization has planned for the year.

SARC is a student-run organization that represents the American Red Cross on the University of Georgia campus. Students are responsible for planning and volunteering at the drive, which includes registration, manning both the prize table and canteen stations.

The drive offers great incentives aside from the feeling of giving back. Participants will get door prizes like t-shirts, drawstring bags, and candy. Additionally, anyone who registers, whether or not they make it through the process, will be entered into a drawing for the chance to win two tickets to the football game between rivals University of Georgia and University of Florida.

SARC has some big goals for its Halloween blood drive. “Our goal is to collect 87 pints of blood the first day, 97 the second day and 116 the third day,” says volunteer coordinator and SARC member Norman Ton. “We'll need 360 or so donors to make that goal.”

Each unit of blood collected can help save the lives of three people, and Blood Services director and American Red Cross employee Janet Jarrett stresses that much of the blood collected will be used to help children.

“When doctors are working on our smallest patients, they want to use blood [donated by] the youngest people possible,” she says. “Every single blood drive is important; every single day we have to collect the blood that we have on the books.”

Big Winnings!!

2011-10-12T16:49:00.000-04:00

“I’ll take giving blood for $1,000 Alex.” You may be an avid viewer or have only seen Jeopardy once or twice. Either way, the phrase should be familiar to you. On Tuesday night’s episode of Jeopardy, the American Red Cross was featured in a category about donating blood. If you were lucky enough to see the episode you would’ve seen the Jeopardy Clue Crew at the American Red Cross Blood Bank in Washington D.C. The Clue Crew gives Jeopardy contestants visual clues through real life experiences.

Kelly Miyahara about to give blood.

Clue Crew members Kelly Miyahara and Sarah Whitcomb presented clues by showing the audience and contestants the process of donating blood. Kelly posted on the crew’s Facebook page that she was unable to give blood on the day of the shoot due to clotting issues, but she definitely plans to try and donate again in the future. Her fellow Clue Crew member Sarah was successfully able to donate blood!

Sarah Whitcomb holding the blood she just donated

The Red Cross spotlight on Jeopardy was a wonderful way to spread knowledge throughout the nation about the facts, fictions, and purposes of blood donations. If you are interested in learning more about giving blood, visit www.redcrossblood.org or visit your local Red Cross Chapter.

To read more about the Clue Crew members’ experience in Washington D.C. visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/jeopardy. Remember, every minute of every day someone is in need of blood. The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give blood!

pictures courtesy of:

http://www.facebook.com/notes/jeopardy/the-jeopardy-clue-crew/244818748902382?ref=nf

Using Social Media In Disaster Situations

2011-10-06T13:28:00.001-04:00

Could a tweet save your life?

People use social media for a lot of things. They log in to see pictures of the new baby, tweet about their disappointment in a reality show competition, or watch a funny clip everyone at work has been talking about.

Social media is great for all of those things and, in general, can be a great tool for procrastination. However, people are now turning to social media for more important things, including emergency information. In times of crisis and emergency, social media has become a lifesaver.

The American Red Cross recently conducted a survey to explore this idea. They found that more than 60 percent of the general public relies on online news for emergency information. When it comes to communicating after an emergency, nearly one-fourth of the general public responded that they would definitely use social media to let others know that they are safe.

You can check out the survey findings here:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/63022972/SURVEY-DATA-Social-Media-in-Emergencies-2011

Along with this, the Red Cross has created a phone app, free-of-charge, that helps people during an emergency. “S.O.S. by the American Red Cross” provides real-time emergency care instructions and information to help a person stay safe. These instructions include step-by-step videos, maps, and an expansive resource guide.

Social media has long been viewed as a source of entertainment or a way to stay connected with others. Now sites like Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and others are recognized as reliable sources for emergency news. They are essentially lifelines for people afflicted by disasters, no matter the size, scope, or location of the disaster.

Emergency Preparedness for your Pet!!!

2011-10-03T19:06:00.000-04:00

photo courtesy of http://disaster-emergency-preparedness.com/

In the event of a disaster, many families have a plan in place; however, that plan may often overlook four-legged members of the family. The following is a list of helpful tips to ensure the safety of your pet during an emergency. Remember, if an area isn’t safe for you, it probably isn’t safe for your pet either!

1. Assemble a disaster kit for each animal in the house. It should include food and water, any medications, photos, veterinarian records, cleaning supplies, and animal care supplies such as carriers, collars (with up-to-date ID tags), and leashes. Keep the kits near an exit for easy access during an emergency.

2. Microchip your pets and keep the registration updated! They are the single most effective way to reunite lost pets and families.

3. In the event of a tornado, keep pets leashed and indoors. Bring them with you to a basement or windowless room.

4. Separate dogs and cats during an emergency; animals may act irrationally when under stress.

5. Identify evacuation locations that will accommodate your pets if you evacuate. Write the names down and keep them with your disaster kits.

6. Keep at least three-days worth of food and water in airtight and waterproof containers. Rotate the food every two months to avoid spoilage.

7. Always keep enough gallons of water on hand for both you and your pet in case of power outages. Feed pets canned food so they will need less water to drink.

8. If flood danger threatens, take your animals and move to higher ground without hesitation.

9. You may not be home when disaster is eminent. Find out if a trusted neighbor would be willing to take your pets and meet you at a prearranged location.

10. Never leave behind your pet unless it compromises your safety. If you must leave a pet behind, make sure they can escape, have food and water, and are not tied up.

Useful links for pet safety:
-In case of evacuation, here is a list of pet-friendly hotels:
http://www.officialpethotels.com/
-If during evacuation or vacation your pet needs medical treatment, the following contains a list of emergency veterinary clinics by location.
http://www.localvets.com/
-In case of a fire, it is imperative to alert firefighters of any pets. The following link from the ASPCA offers free window decals for your home.
http://www.aspca.org/about-us/free-aspca-stuff/free-pet-safety-pack.aspx
-Learn pet first aid!
http://www.redcrossstore.org/Shopper/Product.aspxUniqueItemId=95&utm_source=RCO&utm_medium=NewsArticle&utm_campaign=ProductPlacement

Be Ready for Any Emergency with these Guidelines!

2011-09-28T14:43:00.001-04:00

If a disaster occurred next week, would you be prepared? If not, here are some guidelines to help you and your family make a plan and get prepared in the process.Your plan should be very detailed and entail specific locations.

Meet with household members to discuss the dangers of fire, severe weather, earthquakes and other emergencies, like power outages, as well as how to respond to each. Identify the safe spots in your home for each type of disaster, but realize that these spots might be very different.

Ensure all family members are familiar with the home’s floor plan and know the best escape routes in all the rooms—at least two for each room. Sometimes families may get separated so it’s important to have two emergency meeting places: one near the home and another outside the neighborhood in case you are unable to return home.

It’s important that all family members know how to contact each other and/or emergency services when necessary. Children should learn how and when to call 911, the police, and the fire department. Those numbers, as well as emergency contacts, such as relatives and friends, should be posted near the telephone. Additionally, it’s a good practice to have at least one local emergency contact and one out-of-state contact number that family members can call if separated.
Other things to do before a disaster include knowing the proper location and use of a fire extinguisher, keeping vital family records and documents in a water and fire-proof container, installing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on each level of the home, reducing home hazards and showing family members how to turn off the main switches and valves of the utilities when necessary.

It is also beneficial to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Certification classes are available at the American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter.

Once you have a plan in place, maintain it. Review the plan every six months and test family members on the proper responses to the disaster, keep food and water supplies updated and fresh, and test smoke alarms yearly.

However making a plan and maintaining it is ONLY ONE part of the preparation process!!

Stay informed about community hazards, community disaster plans, and any warning systems in place. If new emergency alert systems are in place, consider contacting your local EMA office to become registered.

Have a disaster service supplies kit available at your disposal, whether it’s one offered by the American Red Cross or a homemade kit. It doesn’t matter as long as it contains basic items needed to stay safe and comfortable during a disaster and is easily accessible and portable.

For more information on disaster safety or kits please visit www.redcross.org/BeRedCrossReady

For more information on CPR and first aid certification please visit http://eastgeorgia.redcross.org/training.htm

Why the Red Cross? A view from an East Georgia Chapter Intern

2011-09-27T20:23:00.000-04:00

Travis Barnes, Senior at the University of Georgia

and Intern at the Red Cross East Georgia Chapter

My experience volunteering at the Red Cross has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done while at the University of Georgia. After only three months with the Red Cross, I have learned more things about the Athens-Clarke county community than my previous five years living in Athens. I, like most students at UGA, spent the majority of my free time downtown or at Sanford Stadium before I started volunteering. Surprisingly, there’s much more to Athens than just parties and football. The things I have done while with the Red Cross have exposed me to places and people around the area I never would have met before. While volunteering, I actually was able to meet one of, if not the, best all time quarterbacks at UGA, David Green. It was amazing to meet him and have a conversation about the rewards of helping others and giving back to the community.

Volunteering here actually makes me realize all of the things the Red Cross does to make this community a better place. Whether its delivering school supplies to underprivileged children or sending volunteers to help out with the devastation caused by natural disasters, the Red Cross is always there to lend a hand. It’s amazing how much more fulfilling I feel when I volunteer for a couple hours of my free time to help out rather than sit on the couch and watch TV or play video games.

Whether you feel like giving back to the community, need something to boost your resume, or are just bored and looking for something to do, I strongly suggest volunteering at the Red Cross. The atmosphere is extremely friendly and I actually enjoy coming in to the office because of the laid back atmosphere and smiling faces. If you knew me personally, you would know that this would be one of the last things I would choose to do with my free time, but the feeling of satisfaction I get is overwhelming and has completely changed my outlook on things.

Recap: East Georgia Chapter's Show and Inspire Open House Tour

2011-09-23T00:31:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday, September 20, 2011, our local East Georgia Chapter held it’s first Show and Inspire Open House Tour! Guests were able to get a first-hand perspective of what life looks like serving as an American Red Cross volunteer. They also were able to tour the chapter office and speak with veteran volunteers and Red Cross staff. In addition, Mr. Jeff Taylor, Executive Director of the chapter, shared his first-hand experiences he has witnessed over the years serving not only as Executive Director but also as an ordinary citizen trying to make a difference in the lives of others confronted with unfortunate situations.

Mr. Jeff Taylor, Executive Director of The American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter

One of the tour’s key speakers was Ms. Dana Jenkins, a volunteer for the American Red Cross who selflessly donates her time to help the local chapter. Dana volunteers at the University of Georgia home football games. She is prepared to help out the Red Cross in any way she can--whether that’s giving CPR to another individual, taking care of someone who has become dehydrated, or even assisting someone who has been bitten by mosquitoes! Dana says she has had many different and unique roles on football Saturdays, but she would not change her experience for the world. “If you think you’re going to be able to watch the game, then you’ve been mislead,” says Dana. “We’re all here to work.”

Ms. Dana Jenkins, a Red Cross Football volunteer

Another highlight of the Show and Inspire Tour was Executive Director Jeff Taylor’s presentation about the Students for The American Red Cross (SARC). For the academic year of 2011-2012, SARC had an ambition of growing from a group of just 10 members to over 150 members. Within just one month, SARC has grown to over 60 active student volunteers! On behalf of the entire Red Cross staff, we are very excited about this upcoming year and anticipate nothing but the best from our university students. Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to the chapter! (For more information, or if you are a student interested in becoming involved with SARC, please visit http://eastgeorgia.redcross.org/SARC.htm or e-mail sarc@uga.edu with any questions.)

At the end of the tour, guests were able to ask any questions they may have had as well as find out more ways in how to become involved with the Red Cross. Each guest learned exactly what it takes to volunteer some of their time to the organization. If you are interested in becoming more involved with the Red Cross East Georgia Chapter, please visit our website at http://eastgeorgiaredcoss.org or call (706)-353-1645.

If you were unable to attend the Show and Inspire Tour on Tuesday night, here are some informative key facts:

In the United States, there are over 500,000 volunteers who are trained to work with the American Red Cross.
At the East Georgia Chapter alone, 8,500 citizens and residents of the local area were trained in life-saving skills in the year 2010.
There are 650 Red Cross Community Chapters across the United States.
Just this past month (September), 1,600 American Red Cross volunteers assisted and helped New York residents after Hurricane Irene.
Did you know that the American Red Cross does not receive government assistance?
The Red Cross is called upon for some of the most unique things. For example, Executive Director Jeff Taylor informed guests that Red Cross volunteers had to milk dairy cows in upper New York state!

Thank you to everyone who came to our open house tour, and a BIG thank you goes out to our chapter staff!!

Guests enjoying refreshments and conversation in the Public Affairs Office

Guess Who: The American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet

2011-09-19T17:27:00.000-04:00

Football season is up and running, and while some players are focused on stats and endorsements, one NFL star is using his celebrity to help others. For this player, volunteerism is no spectator sport. At 6’5’’ and 230 lbs. this quarterback has thrown almost 400 touchdown passes and garnered 54,828 yards throughout his twelve-year professional career. After getting his start with the University of Tennessee Volunteers, he was a first round draft pick for this outstanding player was a first-round draft pick for the Indianapolis Colts. He is the son of Archie Manning and older brother to Giants’ quarterback Eli Manning. You guessed it; today’s celebrity cabinet member is none other than Peyton Manning, a man that is really in the “red zone.”

"I'm happy to volunteer for the American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet. The Red Cross is an organization that responds to those in need and it is an honor to help them with the lifesaving role they play everyday in communities nationwide," says Manning.

It Takes a Village | Update from the field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front line

2011-09-15T22:05:00.001-04:00

Hurricane Irene’s furry and flooding were more than enough for New Yorkers, but when Tropical Storm Lee blew through the Southern Tier of New York only nine days after Irene, dumping more than eight inches of rain, you have a recipe for disaster.

Binghamton, New York suffered the effects of the double-dip storm waters in unprecedented ways. With the torrent came the immediate evacuation of 20,000 residents and the need for a very fast response by the American Red Cross. Binghamton University stepped up immediately and made their Event Center available to the Red Cross, along with local and state agencies, to make ready for a flood of residents seeking safe haven.

When 1,800 area citizens sought shelter, literally from the storm, critical partnerships with the American Red Cross, bonded together to create not only a “mass shelter” on the grounds of Binghamton University, but a temporary residence that provided safe, secure and substantial refuge for the citizens of Binghamton and the surrounding region. The American Red Cross works hard throughout the year, throughout every state, to make sure that we have partnership agreements and relationships in place. When all of our partners work together for the humanitarian and compassionate care for all citizens, the results are a marvel and inspiration to behold.

Upon arrival to the nerve center of the mass shelter operation within the Event Center, I discovered the fruits of collaboration to be remarkable and effective. I walked into the gigantic even center and saw scores of Red Cross volunteers busy caring for the residents with excellent care, offering hope, health services, and mental health services, hot meals, and snacks, activities for children, cots and blankets. Soon I was led into command center where the Red Cross Shelter Managers joined ranks with the University Law Enforcement Officers, local and state Law Enforcement Officials, Incident Commanders, Public Information Officers, County Health Officers, volunteer medical professionals, and members from the New York Fire Department. The professionalism of the collaborative efforts between all agencies worked seamlessly;

I now realize first hand why the Red Cross Community Chapter Disaster Service Directors all across the country work so hard to develop lasting and growing relationships with key stakeholders in every community. It really does take a village to offer the best in care and protection of our neighbors, and the American Red Cross volunteers understand and appreciate this at every level. The Red Cross appreciates the support and the privilege of partnership, particularly observed in Binghamton, NY, but known across the country.

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Jeff Taylor, Executive Director of East Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross is currently on the front lines of the Hurricane Irene aftermath in upstate New York. For daily updates from the field, follow Jeff on Facebook at Red Cross East Georgia and on Twitter @RedCrossEastGA or @taylorjeff7.

Thank you to our volunteers and donors--you are the lifeline of our organization.

American Red Cross Spontaneous Volunteers | Update from the field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front line

2011-09-14T13:39:00.000-04:00

Disaster Strikes without warning, but when it does, at a moment’s notice throughout the world, American Red Cross volunteers are ready to respond. Red Cross volunteers are trained, re-trained and always certified; this is what they sign up for and are eager to do – volunteer!

Matthew, a spontaneous volunteer, from Vestal, New York.

But what do you do when a major disaster strikes and “Spontaneous Volunteers” start showing up wanting to do something to help? You quickly discover their interests and match them up with the needs that exist. This is precisely what I found when I met a Vestal, New York family, serving hot meals in the Event Center of Binghamton University, right alongside of our deployed Red Cross volunteers. A mom, 15-year-old son, Matthew, an aunt and their family friends were all pitching in to serve dinner for our 500 shelter residents. As I listened to their stories of volunteerism within the community, I quickly learned that, “this is what we do when you grow up in this community; you step in and serve because you love your town, you love the people and you never know when you may be on the receiving end of kindness.”

Spontaneous volunteers are incredible, and they are a vital supplement to the regular Red Cross volunteer team. Matthew shared with us that all of his friends have been helping out in the community, cleaning out flooded homes, raking yards and helping with their parents in the Red Cross shelters. Matthew also shared that the work of volunteerism can get in the way of regular fun, and he was glad. He said, “Today I called around to my friends to see if they wanted to play a little pick-up football, but we couldn’t because everyone was too busy serving others. It was really cool to see that happening.”

A short distance from this family we found two students attending Binghamton University busy at work in their new Spontaneous Volunteer roles; mopping the floors in the gigantic Event Center. Alec and Chelsea shared, “We saw what had happened along the Susquehanna River, the neighborhoods that were devastated, and the growing population at the Event Center, and we imagined ourselves in their position and knew that we had to help support the Red Cross and bring hope to the shelter residents.”

Many of the trained and certified American Red Cross volunteers began their tenure with the Red Cross as Spontaneous Volunteers. It is important to know that American Red Cross community chapters across the country always welcome new volunteers and the contagious spirit of volunteerism.

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Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front lines of Hurricane Irene Disaster Relief

Jeff Taylor, Executive Director of East Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross is currently on the front lines of the Hurricane Irene aftermath in upstate New York. For daily updates from the field, follow Jeff on Facebook at Red Cross East Georgia and on Twitter @RedCrossEastGA or @taylorjeff7.

Thank you to our volunteers and donors--you are the lifeline of our organization.

Students Serve Binghamton Shelter | Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front line

2011-09-13T10:35:00.000-04:00

Students Serve Binghamton Shelter

September 12, 2011

The Binghamton University Event Center is not only filled with 500 residents this morning, it is also filled with student volunteers. The students and young adults have come out in great quantity from the ranks of the American Red Cross volunteer base, from the ranks of the AmeriCorps volunteer team, but also from the Binghamton University student body. In fact, so many volunteers from the student body have come to serve that rotating shifts have been established well into the week. The students are eager to serve and are grateful to join the efforts of the American Red Cross.

Ross Youmans, and Environmental Science graduate from this past May shared his motivation for serving: “This is my community, the flood hit here and I wanted to help.” Serena Karsou, Editor of the University paper, “Pipedream,” stated that, “the student volunteers have been training for disaster relief and are comfortable with the tensions related to disaster. Our students are great when it comes to talking with the shelter residents, keeping them occupied, and offering hope.” Freshman, Henry Meyer, had a very practical outlook about serving in the shelter. “I (Henry) came with my freshman friends to volunteer and we all felt that serving was a better idea than watching TV and having a few days off from school….I like to help people.”

The University student volunteers and student Red Cross volunteers are joined by the AmeriCorps volunteers who have been long-time partners with the American Red Cross. These students take 10 months off from school, or post-graduate time, to develop leadership skills, to serve in disaster relief operations, and to prepare for a lifetime of service and leadership. Patrick Skovira has just signed up for a second term of service with AmeriCorps and will be a Team leader during his second deployment. Patrick stated, when asked about why he serves, “For the experience of being able to help others and for the experience I will gain for other fields of work. I love the opportunity through AmeriCorps and love the partnership with the Red Cross.”

One other group of student volunteers on the shelter floor are those serving through the Harper Ferry Student Volunteer Ambulance Service. After 6 months of training, 120 hours of class work and a New York exam, these students are on the front line of first responders for the student body living on campus and off-campus; and right now, for our residents in the Event Center.

What does all of this mean? At times of devastation and despair, we should all be encouraged that our youth, (those currently in college and those who have recently graduated), are ready to serve, and the residents of the shelter love not only their service, but their youthful energy and inspiration. As one shelter resident observed, “They are our future, and they are our present; they are our countries hope and we ought to be proud”

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Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front lines of Hurricane Irene Disaster Relief

Jeff Taylor, Executive Director of East Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross is currently on the front lines of the Hurricane Irene aftermath in upstate New York. For daily updates from the field, follow Jeff on Facebook at Red Cross East Georgia and on Twitter @RedCrossEastGA or @taylorjeff7.

Thank you to our volunteers and donors--you are the lifeline of our organization.

Are You Prepared? September=National Preparedness Month

2011-09-12T22:06:00.000-04:00

Would you be prepared if there was an emergency tonight, tomorrow, or next week? This September marks the eighth annual National Preparedness Month which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Their goal, along with other organizations such as the American Red Cross, is to use this month to spread awareness on what it means to be prepared in the face of an emergency and to make sure your answer to the first question is a “yes.”

There are three key steps to being prepared: Build a kit, make a plan, and be informed. An emergency kit should include enough supplies to last three days. These supplies should include one gallon of water per person, per day, nonperishable food, a first aid kit, medications, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, a flashlight and batteries, and copies of important personal documents. A variety of emergency preparedness kits, first aid kits and other supplies are available at www.redcrossstore.org.

When making an emergency plan, all members of the household should work together so that everyone is informed and ready if an emergency were to arise. The plan should include a location that everyone can meet if you cannot go home. Make sure to include an out-of-area contact person in your plan. Be informed about what types of disasters are most likely to affect the area that you live in and how local authorities will contact you if one were to happen. Watch the news, listen to the radio, and check websites to stay updated about local and national information. Get Tech Ready, is a website recently launched by the Red Cross, FEMA, the Ad Council, and Google Crisis that teaches people how to use technology to prepare and recover from emergencies or disasters.

No one can predict when an emergency or disaster will occur. Contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross to find out what courses you can take to better prepare yourself with knowledge on emergency situations and life-saving skills. Visit http://eastgeorgia.redcross.org/training.htm to find out what classes the East Georgia Chapter offers and spread the word throughout your community to help ensure that everyone has the chance to be prepared for a disaster.

Critical Care and Compassion Offered to Schoharie, NY | Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front lines

2011-09-11T12:32:00.003-04:00

Critical Care and Compassion Offered to Schoharie, NY

September 10, 2011

A trip to Schoharie, NY on Saturday morning, September 10, nearly two weeks since Hurricane Irene blew through this quiet town, and just two days after 8 more inches of torrential rain from Tropical Storm Lee brought the flood waters of the Schoharie Creek back into every home, flooding every street, and dampening spirits once again, brought several wonderful surprises.

The firs surprise was a long trail of vehicles crawling the 3 miles into the devastated town of Schoharie. Everyone in the cars was in a hurry but nobody was in a rush. The hurry was the result of anticipation and eagerness to get out of the cars that were filled with neighbors from all over the northeast, eager to park, don their gloves and masks, and begin providing fresh energy to an exhausted and bewildered town.

The second surprise was an aroma of mixed tantalizing smells from countless BBQ pits, grills with hamburgers and hotdogs, and other all-American delicacies. These were the gifts of nourishment and compassion from the American public, gathered in mass in Schoharie, NY – just another blessing given with love and hope to a town in great need.

The third surprise on my journey, in addition to thousands of spontaneous volunteers offering to clean out homes of unknown neighbors, and in addition to the very welcomed aroma of well-known “comfort foods,” was the presence all over town of the American Red Cross volunteers. I pulled my car to the shoulder; saw a group of Red Cross First Aid volunteers standing ready to serve, and so I made my way over to greet them.

I learned that the town leaders had made a special request of the American Red Cross, asking us to provide as many of our First Aid volunteers as possible. The town had anticipated a large turnout of these spontaneous volunteers, as well as the subsequent injuries, abrasions, puncture wounds and cuts that would come as a result – and boy did they come.

By 10 AM the fixed location for our First Aid volunteers had already attended to and treated a dozen minor first aid requests, while the “on-foot” First Aid volunteers could barely walk half a block before being stopped by someone needing attention for minor treatment.

Our volunteers come from varying walks of life – Brian has been a Registered Nurse for just two months; a doctor gives his annual vacation leave for service through the American Red Cross; Maggie has been serving the American public through the American Red Cross since Hurricane Katrina in honor of her husband who passed away.

These volunteers inspired me – they made an impact upon me – they reminded me of why I have come to know the American Red Cross to be one of the greatest humanitarian organizations in the world. I marvel over how excellence in Health and Safety training, followed by a commitment to help people prepare for, prevent and respond to disaster, along with great care, compassion and a hug, can bring a town very needed hope.

Extraordinary Partnerships: The American Red Cross and the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Kitchens | Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front lines

2011-09-10T21:43:00.000-04:00

Extraordinary Partnerships:
The American Red Cross and the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Kitchens
September 9, 2011

At 2:30 AM an additional partnership between Albany, NY and Binghamton, NY was from the American Red Cross and the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Kitchen. This is not a new partnership for anyone related to Disaster Relief, but a 2 AM wakeup call, followed by the outdoor kitchens at the Arlington Baptist Church outside of Albany being fired up at 2:30 AM, for a most extraordinary Disaster Relief
Operation.

The Binghamton, NY American Red Cross Disaster Relief Operation escalated in response to 8 plus
inches of rain and an historic flood level of the Susquehanna River. The sudden and urgent need to shelter thousands of residents evacuated from their homes and in need of food, created a feeding need that had to be met. Over the next 6 hours, the Southern Baptists prepared 5,000 boxed lunches and an additional 5,000 hot meals, to be transported by the American Red Cross Emergency, to those in greatest need.

I arrived at the outdoor kitchen at 8:30 AM and found a flurry of activity as the final preparations were
made to transport the 10,000 meals. When asked why the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Kitchen
partners with the Red Cross, Kitchen Manager, Karen Warren stated, “When we come into an area where people are hopeless, and they see then they see people out there who love them, they gain hope because someone cares. Nothing is better than knowing you have done some good.”

American Red Cross Kitchen Manager, Bobby Roberts, runs a tight ship but with a great southern humor. Bobby comes to the Hurricane Irene American Red Cross relief operation in Northeast New York from Columbia, SC. Bobby has been serving through the Red Cross for many years and gains satisfaction in knowing that the most important basic needs of people, devastated by disaster, are being met through the Red Cross and our partners.

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Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front lines of Hurricane Irene Disaster Relief

Jeff Taylor, Executive Director of East Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross is currently on the front lines of the Hurricane Irene aftermath in upstate New York. For daily updates from the field, follow Jeff on Facebook at Red Cross East Georgia and on Twitter @RedCrossEastGA or @taylorjeff7.

Thank you to our volunteers and donors--you are the lifeline of our organization.

Forklifts lift Spirits for American Red Cross Volunteers | Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front lines

2011-09-10T21:41:00.003-04:00

Forklifts lift Spirits for American Red Cross Volunteers

September 8, 2011

On a day of historic rain fall from the remnants of Tropical Storm Lee, American Red Cross volunteers, Civil Air Patrol volunteers, and Americorps volunteers, all rejoiced when Gary Farrigan, Territory Sales manager of Tri-Lift, Inc., arrived to the Northeast New York American Red Cross warehouse with 3 forklifts. This donation from Tri-Lift not only makes lifting of heavy bulk items for the disaster relief operation easier and more efficient, but they also lifted the spirits of our volunteers who have been managing all deliveries, supplies and shipments by hand.

Ken Warkentin has been a Red Cross volunteer since Hurricane Katrina and he is serving this operation as the warehouse manager. When the donation of the forklifts became a reality, Warkentin stated, “the generous donation from Tri-Lift takes chaos out of chaos when managing Bulk Distribution for a major Disaster Relief Operation.” The arrival, on the day after 8 new inches of rain to the greater Albany area created massive flooding throughout the region, “boosts morale for our volunteers.” Warkentin continued by stating, “the donation of the warehouse, and now the donation of 3 forklifts, will allow our volunteers to see the fruits of their labor, which in turn raises their spirits and motivates them to extend their service which now exceeds 10 days of relentless work.”

Gary Farrigan could not have been more pleased and honored to make the forklifts a reality. Farrigan shared, “We (Tri-Lift, Inc.) have customers in all of the devastated areas and we wanted to donate something that would really help.” When Farrigan presented the keys to the volunteers in the warehouse, cheers and applause erupted. On a dreary day of floods, Tri-Lift, Inc. became a hero to the American Red Cross. As one Americorps volunteer shared, “I had no idea that 3 forklifts could lift more than bulk items; we are lifted in spirit and we are thankful.”

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Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front lines of Hurricane Irene Disaster Relief

Jeff Taylor, Executive Director of East Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross is currently on the front lines of the Hurricane Irene aftermath in upstate New York. For daily updates from the field, follow Jeff on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/redcrossega and on Twitter @RedCrossEastGA or @taylorjeff7.

Thank you to our volunteers and donors--you are the lifeline of our organization.

A safe place to go when our whole world has been turned upside down... | Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front lines

2011-09-10T21:31:00.000-04:00

Brenda Ell and her 3 foster children know the Fonda Fultonville Central School in Fonda, NY better than they thought. For the second time in a week, the Ell's have been evacuated from their home in nearby Fultonville, but have found safe haven in the American Red Cross shelter. Brenda and the children are grateful for good food, a cot, and with help from the school Superintendent, the auditorium was turned into a children's movie theater.

When asked what happened to their home in Fultonville, we learned that a mudslide into their home had caused their evacuation. Brenda and her husband have a second home, but unfortunately it sits on the river bank in Binghamton where record flooding is causing massive evacuations. The impact of Hurricane Irene and the latest flooding from Tropical Storm Lee, is leaving behind a mammoth foot print. Brenda shares, "The American Red Cross and all the volunteers have given us a safe place to go for comfort when our whole world has been turned upside down."

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Update from the Field: East Georgia Red Cross on the front lines of Hurricane Irene Disaster Relief

Jeff Taylor, Executive Director of East Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross is currently on the front lines of the Hurricane Irene aftermath in upstate New York. For daily updates from the field, follow Jeff on Facebook at Red Cross East Georgia and on Twitter @RedCrossEastGA or @taylorjeff7.

Thank you to our volunteers and donors--you are the lifeline of our organization.

From Fires to Floods: The American Red Cross Will Be There.

2011-09-07T23:07:00.001-04:00

As the saying goes: When it rains, it pours. Or in this case, it floods.

In just a short period of 11 days, the American Red Cross has been flooded with disaster relief needs around the nation. The United States has been hit with everything from hurricanes to tropical storms to tornadoes to floods to even wildfires. These disasters have left families with destroyed homes, if a home at all. People’s lives have been uprooted, making getting the daily necessities, such as clean clothes and food, a struggle for those affected.

The American Red Cross has heard the call and responded. After Hurricane Irene, disaster relief volunteers from all over the nation found themselves all along the East Coast, serving more than 1.6 million meals and snacks and providing approximately 58,000 overnight shelters since August 27. As people begin the grueling and overwhelming task of cleaning up their homes and towns after the hurricane, volunteers have given out more than 516,000 relief items such as hygiene kits, mops, brooms, tarps, work gloves and coolers.

On the other side of the nation, in areas in Texas, Oklahoma and Oregon, the Red Cross has opened shelters to house families that were forced to evacuate because of wildfires. In Texas alone, more than 450 people spent Monday night in 10 Red Cross shelters.

A bit north of these shelters, nearly 100 people in North Dakota continue to rely on the Red Cross for shelter, after disastrous flooding removed them from their homes back in June.

Although it is easy to see that the Red Cross provides survival essentials, such as shelter and food, perhaps the most important thing the Red Cross has to offer is its presence. People displaced from their homes, still reeling from the shock, take comfort in knowing that there are still good people out there, willing to stop everything they are doing and run to their aid. This is what people need the most and this is what the Red Cross stands for.

Be a part of the mission and be there.

**It is already estimated that Red Cross relief services for Hurricane Irene alone will total to $10 to $15 million. Help the cause.**

Volunteers Have Loads of Hope with Tide & The American Red Cross

2011-09-05T20:37:00.000-04:00

Nick Lastrina and Daryl O’Neal love to serve and have found their home with “Loads of Hope.” In a partnership between the American Red Cross, Tide and Duracell, these two men have found that by serving those devastated by natural disaster, they have gained much more than they have given. For Lastrina, this is his fifth major event of the summer, and despite many long weeks away from his home in New Hampshire, helping people is his motivation.

Loads of Hope has one large truck, equipped with washers, dryers and unlimited supplies of Tide detergent. Currently they are located in the Wal-Mart parking lot, alongside their partner company, Duracell, in Cobleskill, NY. There is a steady flow of citizens bringing all of the salvageable clothes they own in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, and they always leave with “huge smiles and grateful hearts,” according to Lastrina.

Lastrina states, “If they come to the Wal-Mart parking lot, we are simply trying to lighten their load and the American Red Cross partnership allows us to do that.

In addition to the great service that Loads of Hope provides the community, they also employ local citizens wherever they set up their truck. O’Neil commented, “this is just one more way that we are able to give back to the community and help boost the economy after disaster strikes.’

Tide, Duracell and the American Red Cross will continue to meet the needs of those devastated by Hurricane Irene until the job is done.

Duracell partners with the American Red Cross

2011-09-05T15:24:00.000-04:00

The Duracell Company, along with Tide's Loads of Hope, has been working side-by-side with the American Red Cross in Cobleskill. “We have had a steady flow of citizens coming to us for batteries. So far we have given out over 100 cases of “D” batteries and the need continues to exist,” said Eric Cannon of Duracell.

Duracell has had a great partnership with the Red Cross, particularly in determining “where the need is greatest.” One of the considerations in deciding where to send the Duracell truck is determining where access to the truck, Loads of Hope and the Red Cross is greatest: “We don’t want to set up a truck in an area that is protected by the National Guard. If the Guard is not permitting outside citizens to enter a particular town, we won’t set up our truck. It is important that Duracell, Loads of Hope and the American Red Cross are accessible by the greatest population,” said Cannon.

One of the difficulties with the Hurricane Irene operation is that the footprint of the storm was so large; it was difficult to immediately determine where to send the Duracell truck. Cannon also pointed out that the Red Cross was having a significant and positive impact in Cobleskill; the people in that region seemed to really appreciate what the Red Cross volunteers were providing.

Volunteer's Culinary Group helps feed the masses in New York & New Jersey

2011-09-04T15:10:00.000-04:00

Jim Carrigan, an American Red Cross volunteer and lead with Whitsons Culinary Group, drove the first 5 trucks of meals into New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. The partnership with the American Red Cross and Whitsons Culinary Group is vibrant and incredible.

Over the past week, in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, Jim and his crew have been serving 10,000 meals per day in Patterson, NJ. He received a call to come help us here in Albany where the Arbor Hill Elementary School already has a contract with Whitsons. Jim and his local staff prepared 5,000 sandwiches and 16,000 meals today, and though he would like to continue on and provide more for the duration of the Disaster Relief Operation, he is pleased with the Southern Baptist contract that will assume full kitchen work beginning tomorrow. Jim was heading back to Patterson where they will continue their efforts to provide 8,000 meals resuming Sunday, September 4.

Jim shared, "It was quite a sight this morning when we loaded 15 Emergency Response Vehicles (ERV's) from the loading dock of the Arbor Hill School. We love volunteering for the American Red Cross, and this storm relief operation is much bigger than anyone seems to know." Jim is committed to the mission of the American Red Cross, as is the entire staff and company at Whitsons Culinary Group.

Jim closed by sending his best wishes and thoughts to all of the American Red Cross volunteers. Jim concluded by adding, "You have a major work ahead of you in the Greater Albany region, and the country needs to know that the work is far from over."

Hurricane Irene Update

2011-08-31T14:55:00.000-04:00

An American Red Cross shelter at Nassau Community College in Long Island, New York

on August 27, 2011

Thousands of people from North Carolina to New England have turned to the American Red Cross for help in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, as flooding, widespread power outages, and wind damage have devastated communities. Since the night before the storm, the Red Cross has operated or supported nearly 500 shelters and provided more than 52,000 overnight stays.

A Red Cross volunteer comforts a Lost Valley, Maryland resident who has survived five floods, with Hurricane Irene being one of the worst, on August 30, 2011.

More than a thousand trained disaster workers, including 76 from Georgia, are engaged in relief operations in a dozen coastal states. Every Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) east of the Rocky Mountains – more than 260 vehicles – has been mobilized to support recovery efforts. Georgia’s entire fleet of ERVs has been deployed, and the Atlanta-based Emergency Communications Response Vehicle, capable of powering essential equipment for a relief operation under disaster conditions, is being utilized in North Carolina.

Ten kitchens, capable of serving about 140,000 hot meals each day, are operating or being set up in North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and New York. Arrangements have also been made to have approximately 1.3 million meals available in North Carolina, Maryland, New Jersey, Virginia, and New York through Red Cross partners, and thousands of relief items such as clean-up kits, rakes, ice chests, and tarps have been shipped affected areas.

While many states are still assessing the damage, the Red Cross expects to be helping people in hard-hit areas for the next several weeks.

You can help provide Red Cross relief for the families impacted by Hurricane Irene by making a donation to American Red Cross Disaster Relief today. Your gift enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling, and other emergency assistance. The Red Cross is not a government agency, yet we are guided by a Congressional Charter to respond without hesitation to disasters across the country and around the world. To carry our mission, the Red Cross relies on public generosity.

Each year, the Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 disasters nationwide each year and spends on average $450 million on disaster readiness and relief. The costs of our comprehensive response to Hurricane Irene have not been fully realized but are anticipated to be in the tens of millions.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

Call To Donate: the local chapter at 706-353-1645 and talk to Jeff Taylor, Executive Director
Text A Donation: Text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 by phone
Mail A Check: Mail a check to
American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter
490 Pulaski Street
Athens, GA 30601
Donate Online: American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter Website

Letter from the New Regional CEO of American Red Cross of Georgia

2011-08-26T09:13:00.000-04:00

Dear Red Cross Volunteer,

As I begin my first days on the job as the new Chief Executive for Georgia’s Red Cross, sharing my appreciation for you as a Red Cross volunteer is one of my top priorities.

Since joining the Metro Atlanta Chapter as an employee in 1986, I have always worked alongside and valued the contributions of our dedicated volunteers. While I came to this new position from my role as the chapter’s Chief Development Officer and have raised tens of millions of dollars for our organization, I know that what we all do together every day is not really just about the money, it’s about people – those we serve and those who serve. Volunteers like you, committed to changing lives and saving lives in our communities across Georgia, are the true heart and soul of the American Red Cross.

I, too, share your passion for serving the community with my time and talents. Through the years I have been active with the Junior League of Atlanta, provided hands-on service in homeless shelters, and have served on numerous community non-profit boards.

I know that the insights of volunteers are especially valuable, and I welcome yours. Please share them with me and let’s work together to strengthen and grow the American Red Cross for families and neighbors across our state. Now, more than ever, Georgia needs a strong Red Cross led by a cadre of passionate volunteers.

You have my true gratitude for all you have done and continue to do for your community through the American Red Cross. I look forward to working with you in the months and years to come.

With deep appreciation,

Terri Badour Duckett

Regional Chief Executive Officer

American Red Cross of Georgia

Helping our four-legged friends beat the heat too!

2011-07-28T12:45:00.000-04:00

Temperatures are reaching into the triple digits this summer and people aren’t the only ones feeling the heat—our four-legged friends need protection from the sun too!

It isn’t just the heat either; humidity can affect pets as well and here in

Georgia

, the humidity can get really bad.

Both The Humane Society of the United States and HealthyPet.com offer some tips on how your pets can beat the heat and stay safe in summer weather.

Here are some highlights:

Never leave pets inside a parked car. Cars act like ovens and even on mild days, the temperature inside the car can climb rapidly and enter into dangerous levels, even with the windows cracked. If you have to run an errand, leave the pet at home!

Provide shade and water outside. If any of your pets are outdoors only, be sure to provide plenty of fresh, cold water and cool, shaded areas to protect the pet from the heat. Doghouses provide shelter from the sun, but not from the heat. Also, avoid leaving dogs chained outside while unattended. Doing so can result in numerous insect bites, dehydration, and heatstroke.

Limit outdoor exercise on hot days. Plan exercise according to the temperature. If it is an especially hot day, let the pets exercise in the early morning or late evening. Between 10 am and 4 pm is the hottest time of the day and exercise during these times should be avoided if at all possible.

Pets need sunscreen too. This is especially important if the animal is hairless, white or light-colored. They can sunburn just like people and prolonged exposure can result in peeling and even skin cancer. Sensitive areas include the tips of the ears, nose, and the skin around the lips. Be sure to apply sunscreen to these areas when venturing out into the sun. Also, remember that asphalt can get very hot and can burn a pet’s paws so if exercising, keep the pet on the grass or other cool surfaces if at all possible.

Maintain grooming. Fur/hair is meant to protect the animal from the sun and insulate him from the heat, but excessive fur may trap in heat. Brush on a regular basis and consider clipping your pet if the fur is really dense and thick.

Stay updated on vaccinations and medication. Fleas and ticks stay busy in the warm weather and summer is the prime time for heartworm.

Freeze treats for pets. It will help them to stay cool and provide a yummy snack.

Be cautious of the humidity. It can interfere with the animal’s ability to get rid of excess body heat. Unlike humans, animals only perspire around their paws and isn’t enough to keep them cool. Instead they pant, but high humidity limits the panting process. This is especially important for dogs with snub noses, such as pugs and bulldogs, which further prevent them from panting efficiently.

Beware of gardening products and other chemicals. Summer is the peak season for gardening and many pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals are toxic to animals. Some are even fatal. Research different gardening products in order to know which are toxic and which are safe since many pets enjoy chewing plants.

Recognize the signs of a heatstroke. Heatstroke can be deadly for pets too! Some signs of heatstroke are: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, and unconsciousness. If you notice any of these signs, move the animal indoors or to a cool, air-conditioned place. Place ice packs or damp towels on their head, neck, and chest or run cold-water all over their body. Call a veterinarian immediately!

For many, pets are considered family members so it's important to treat them like one. Use these tips to better help protect your pets during this crazy hot summer season!

ABC Show & American Red Cross Join Forces

2011-07-13T22:10:00.000-04:00

Volunteers from both Georgia and national headquarters represented The American Red Cross in Morgan County at the site of the popular ABC tv show, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition on Tuesday. The show will be in Madison, Georgia all this week filming and building a home for the Anaiah Rucker family. 9-year-old Anaiah Rucker pushed her younger sister out of the way of an oncoming truck resulting in the loss of her own leg and kidney. Loretta Berryman, a Morgan County school bus driver, stopped at the scene and performed CPR which saved Anaiah’s life. In honor of Loretta the Red Cross is offering a Citizen CPR course all week at the Morgan County Lion’s Club. Classes are offered at 10A.M., 11P.M, and 2P.M., every day until Friday. The class lasts about an hour and ends with a chance for those who signed up to practice their new knowledge on CPR dummies.

Before the 1:00P.M class on Tuesday, the Extreme Makeover Home Edition crew arrived to film the class and volunteers. One of the stars of the show, Paige Hemmis came along with the camera crew. Many volunteers were excited to hear that Paige used to be a CPR course instructor. Jeff Taylor, executive director of the American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter, ended Tuesday’s class by presenting Loretta Berryman with a Certificate of Recognition for Extraordinary Personal Action.

So far the course has been a great success and a wonderful opportunity for the Red Cross. Our volunteers hope that people will continue to sign up all week. Anyone interested in taking the course this week may sign up at the volunteer tent in the Beacon Heights shopping center. Look for the Red Cross tent and volunteers to get on the class list. Make sure to watch for the episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition to air in late fall!

Staying Prepared for Hurricane Season

2011-07-10T16:07:00.001-04:00

June 1st marked the beginning of 2011’s hurricane season which runs through November 30th. This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted an above-average
hurricane season with a potential for 12-18 named storms, and the possible development of six major hurricanes. More than 35 million Americans live in regions that could potentially be threatened by Atlantic hurricanes. Although reducing the force of these powerful storms is not possible, the American Red Cross and local communities can minimize their impact. Having a plan of action and being prepared with supplies, tools, and training will enable the Red Cross and the people we help to face this above average hurricane season.

The Red Cross works with its network of partner agencies to assess vulnerabilities and ensure that communities are prepared and ready to respond in case of a hurricane. The Red Cross also works as one of the world’s largest humanitarian networks. We are committed to assisting oversea partners whenever a disaster such as a hurricane strikes. Throughout the past year, the Red Cross has aided communities in Latin America and the Caribbean to prepare for the oncoming hurricane season. A
roster of highly skilled disaster workers are ready to respond overseas and provide assistance to help with relief and recovery.

The 14 counties of the Red Cross East Georgia Chapter may not be in the direct path of a hurricane, but our counties can still be affected by the storm’s aftermath. Any hurricane that strikes the Alabama, Florida, or Georgia coastlines create a domino affect for East Georgia. Whether it is providing volunteers, shelter, food, or other supplies hurricane season affects Northeast Georgia. Hurricanes may also result in tornados and floods across our counties.

Redcross.org supplies free hurricane checklists and instructions that help families and individuals prepare for a hurricane’s impact and recovery after its landfall. The Red Cross has three simple steps to saving lives in the event of a hurricane or other disasters: Get a kit, Make a Plan, Be informed. All information on these three steps are available on redcross.org and through your local Red Cross chapter. Any donations you make help not only our East Georgia Chapter but all chapter across the
nation that may be affected by a hurricane.

Sunflower Farm Festival

2011-07-07T12:03:00.000-04:00

The 10th annual Sunflower Farm Festival kicked off Saturday, July 2 in Morgan
County. The festival ran through the weekend and ended on the Fourth of July offering
US Veterans free admission for the day. The festival included an artist market, live
music, tractor rides, local BBQ, homemade ice cream, activities for all ages, and 15
acres of sunflower fields. Attendees could walk through the fields and cut their own
sunflower bouquet for $15 a bucket.

Each year the American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter is represented at the
festival by our volunteer first-aid tent. The cause for most visits to the first aid tent are
bee stings. Our fully trained volunteers provide water to prevent dehydration and are
ready to help with any other accidents that may occur.

The Sunflower Farm Festival began in 2001 after it was decided that the beauty
of the fully bloomed sunflowers should be shared with the public. Since then the festival
has grown into a much anticipated yearly event. It is co-sponsored by the Morgan
County Rotary Club.

Although the festival is now over, anyone wishing to visit the farm may do so
daily between the hours of 7 A.M. and 9 P.M. Admission is $2 per person.

Have No Fear in Volunteering

2011-07-04T22:25:00.000-04:00

Trying something new is always a task of trepidation. Whether tasting a new flavored cupcake shop, diving into the deep end of the swimming pool, or starting a first day at a new job, it can be scary to jump into something unknown. Like these other anxieties, many people have a natural fear of volunteering for organizations.

Joining a highly functioning group, such as the American Red Cross, that is responsible for keeping people safe and alive can be intimidating for newcomers. Jeff Taylor, Executive Director of the American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter, understands people’s hesitations to volunteer but wants to remind them that volunteering with the Red Cross is a journey worth beginning. “They will find that serving through the American Red Cross is one of the most rewarding experiences they will ever encounter,” he says.

If fears are rooted in being unsure of how to get involved or even in the possibility of failing as a volunteer, do not worry. Volunteers are sufficiently trained and prepared before they are ever called upon in the field. The chapter offers every new volunteer a support system to guarantee their job understanding and success. As Jeff describes, “They will never be alone. They can wear the training wheels as long as they want.”

Training wheels? Doesn’t sound too bad now, does it?

Fears of volunteering are not completely unfounded but Jeff again affirms that volunteers have rewarding experiences that eliminate all doubt. “I understand fears, but I understand that the rewards far outweigh any fear or apprehension,” he says.

You can do it. You can be trained. You can be that person that is out there in the worst of times, giving others a light to walk to when they are stumbling in the dark. You can be a Red Cross leader, helper, teacher, supporter, and/or organizer. You can be whoever you are now. And by bringing your talents to the Red Cross, you can make a difference.

“When you see a family whose home has burnt to the ground and they’ve lost everything and there is somebody in an American Red Cross vest helping them get shelter, food and comfort,” Taylor says, “As a volunteer I can’t think of anything more rewarding than that family just getting that hug and that thank you.”

If you would like to join forces with the American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter, please call the chapter at (706) 353-1645 or visit the chapter’s website at eastgeorgia.redcross.org/volunteer.htm for more information on how you can become a hero.

2011 Annual Meeting & Volunteer Recognition Banquet

2011-06-27T22:04:00.000-04:00

Janis Martinez, this year's guest speaker from the Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter of the Red Cross, and Jeff Taylor, the executive director of the East Georgia Chapter, pose following the 2011 Meeting and Volunteer Recognition Banquet.

The Red Cross East Georgia Chapter celebrated its many wonderful volunteers at the Annual Meeting and Volunteer Recognition Banquet on Tuesday, June 21, 2011 with a video and picture slide show, a guest speaker and an awards ceremony. Janis Martinez, a board member from the Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter of the Red Cross, attended the banquet as this year's guest speaker and shared her story of survival. She endured extensive burns as a young girl and attributes her survival to the many donations of blood, plasma, and skin grafts from the American Red Cross. Her story reminded many volunteers at the banquet of why they do what they do: for the benefit of others. To date, Martinez has donated over 100 pints of blood, and she urges others to donate blood once every 56 days!

This year's award recipients: (right to left) Kathy Coker, Bob Coker, Kathy Wisenbaker, B.J. Brown, Rosemarie Goodrum, Hilary Daniels, Gina Taylor, and Angela Rouse. Not pictured are Jo Vaughn, David Vaughn and Keener Edison.

As pictured above, this year's awards went to:

Administrative Office Volunteers of the Year: Rosemarie Goodrum & Kathy Wisenbaker

Biomedical Services Volunteer of the Year: Gina Taylor

Biomedical Services Volunteer Recognition: Keener Edison

Disaster Response Services New Volunteer of the Year: B.J. Brown

Disaster Response Volunteer of the Year: Mary Jane Phillips

Disaster Response Services Mauldin Award: Bob & Kathy Coker

Health & Safety Services Instructor of the Year: Hilary Daniels

Health & Safety Volunteer of the Year: Angela Rouse

Maxine Harper Award: David & Jo Vaughn

A big thank you goes out to Carrabba's Italian Grill, which supplied a great meal during the Red Cross East Georgia Chapter's 2011 Annual Meeting and Volunteer Recognition Banquet.

New Options for Investment

2011-06-12T17:38:00.001-04:00

Nearly a month ago, on May 15, The American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter kicked off its Annual Sponsorship Campaign for the new fiscal year. The campaign is the first of its kind offering community leaders the opportunity to make a yearly investment in the Red Cross. Athens, Georgia has the highest number of non-profits per capita in the country which certainly influenced the campaign's design. Athens residents may bypass frequent mailings, emails, and other notices from the Red Cross by making an investment with the East Georgia Chapter once a year.

Its goal is to raise funds to help prepare the fourteen counties in the chapter's jurisdiction in the event a natural disaster strikes. Employees and volunteers understand the great impact floods, fires, and storms have on lives and an investment with the Red Cross gives them access to the supplies, food, and services needed in order to respond when a disaster strikes.

This year our teams of volunteers and staff helped 200 families whose lives were affected by a disaster. The Red Cross also provides critical training in CPR, first aid, and other safety and health practices to equip our communities with the knowledge needed to be better prepared in case of an emergency.

Participants in the Annual Sponsorship Campaign have four investment options: platinum corporate sponsor, gold corporate sponsor, silver corporate sponsor, or bronze corporate sponsor. More information regarding these options and the Annual Sponsorship Campaign are located at the link below.

http://eastgeorgia.redcross.org/AnnualSponsorshipCampaign.htm

Here Comes the Heat: Get Prepared with Red Cross Safety Tips

2011-06-07T17:45:00.000-04:00

If you haven't already, get prepared to endure the sweltering heat of Georgia summers!

According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat was the number one weather-related killer of 2010, which caused more fatalities than floods, lightening, tornadoes, hurricanes, winter storms and extreme cold.

The American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter encourages everyone to take precautions to avoid any tragedies caused by our scorching Georgia heat.

Simple measures can be taken to protect yourself and your families from heat related incidents.

Follow these Red Cross safety tips:

• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or use an umbrella.
• Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.
• Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool, they simply circulate the air.
• Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.
• Learn Red Cross first aid and CPR. Click here for classes being offered at the East Georgia Chapter.

Prepare yourself for a safe summer in the sun!

At the Races...

2011-05-20T22:39:00.000-04:00

Last weekend volunteers, staff, and interns of the East Georgia Chapter joined forces with Pro Stock Racer Steve Johnson at the National Hot Rod Association dragway race in Commerce, Georgia to raise money for disaster relief operations throughout the southeast.

For three days, they stood in the heat and rain collecting donations and listening to stories from people affected by the tornadoes last month. With their tent erected on the main road to the entrance, they were in prime location to speak to race fans as they passed by.

Steve Johnson and his crew were set up on the opposite side of the venue. Not only did Johnson and crew promote American Red Cross by sporting the logo on their jersies and on the motorcycle, but they also collected donations. Furthermore, those jersies were sold to corporate backers and the money went straight to the relief efforts.

On Saturday, Johnson and other pro racers signed autographs in front of the American Red Cross tent. Johnson used a matress as a makeshift table, but it served a point. A sign that read "if you have one of these stop and donate" sat atop the matress to remind passerbyers that some people affected by the tornadoes don't have their own mattress, much less a home. It worked. People stopped to donate even if they didn't want an autograph.

All in all, thanks to the tireless efforts of Johnson and the East Georgia Chapter volunteers and staff, $11,000 was collected from donations alone in three days. ($600 was raised in one hour on Sunday!) It will certainly go far in the relief efforts.

Volunteers Help with Relief Efforts in Morgan Co.

2011-05-13T17:33:00.000-04:00

For nearly two weeks, volunteers from the East Georgia chapter have been involved in the FEMA disaster relief efforts in Morgan County.

From 7 am until 7 pm every day since May 7, 2011, volunteers represented the American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter alongside other local, state, and national organizations including FEMA, GEMA, and Family and Child Services. Together, they have helped the lives of county residents most affected by the tornadoes last month.

Volunteers have been active everyday distributing comfort kits and information to residents in need, visiting homes hit by the tornadoes, manning a table for 12 hours in the relief center, and following up on previous cases to determine the degree of assistance needed or wanted. These are just a few of the many duties involved in the relief efforts.

Fortunately, the need for assistance has substantially decreased; volunteers and government officials agree that organizations may be able to withdraw their relief efforts as early as this weekend and close the relief center as well. This has not been made official and some say that the efforts could continue into June.

Whether the efforts shut down in a couple of days or continue for another month, volunteers at the East Georgia Chapter remain committed to helping those in need.

*pictures are of volunteers Kim Moore, Janell Ward, and Susan Bell who participated in the relief efforts on May 11, 2011. Moore and Bell visited 4 homes and created new cases for all. Ward visited 6 homes previously contacted and no new cases were created.

National Volunteer Week 2011

2011-05-04T10:32:00.008-04:00

National Volunteer Week was April 10-16, 2011, and the American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter celebrated at its monthly volunteer meeting! Chapter volunteers were surprised by a 10-foot long banner featuring each of their names (we have more than 70 superstar volunteers!), a cake, and tabletop decorations--all in a superstar theme.

This great group of volunteers gives generously to their own communities throughout the 14 counties the East Georgia Chapter serves, as well as other communities around the state and Southeast, that are affected by disasters.

To find out more about how these awesome people are serving the East Georgia Chapter, check out our new Twitter account or visit us on Facebook!

Volunteers Laura Gutsmann and BJ Brown were deployed to the Disaster Relief Operation in North Carolina with Red Cross an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV). The ERV is used to conduct mobile feeding throughout the areas affected by the tornado and to distribute bulk items like shovels, tarps, rakes, etc.

Disaster Relief Hero

2010-05-19T09:28:00.003-04:00

Amanda Logan has been a disaster services volunteer through Walton County for more than four years. She is always willing to go out to a disaster regardless of whether it’s day or night. Amanda’s compassion for others and willingness to serve, makes her a very special person. She has personally responded to more than 50 single family fires in the Walton County area in the past year. In the middle of January, Amanda responded to a fire in Loganville involving a family of five. Their house and their possessions were totally destroyed in the fire. The American Red Cross met their immediate disaster needs by providing a hotel for the family. Unfortunately, they had no resources for permanent housing. Amanda, knowing of their needs, contacted a personal friend and found a place that the family could call home.

In addition to her disaster response skills, Amanda has served as a Disaster Action Team captain. Over the past year as captain, she has led, trained, and mentored a team of 15 disaster volunteers. She also participates in disaster training exercises and helps raise funding for the Walton County area. As the mother of two small children, she still manages to find time to give to the American Red Cross. Her generous spirit and willingness to drop everything when the need arises makes her a true disaster relief hero.

Congratulations Randy Rigney

2010-04-05T11:40:00.003-04:00

The East Georgia American Red Cross would like to recognize Randy Rigney for his 10 amazing years of service with the Red Cross Disaster team. He volunteered his time as a DAT member, staffing for disaster relief operations, training and mentoring volunteers, and wherever else his expertise has been needed. Rigney has helped over 1,000 families that suffered a divesting loss due to fire, tornado, flood, or hurricane. His giving spirit has even landed him in the disaster relief operation for the tornadoes in Enterprise, Alabama and in Athens, GA assisting the evacuees from Hurricane Katrina. In 2009 Rigney received the Disaster Relief Hero award, recognizing all of his hard work and dedication with the American Red Cross.

Wishing him well at his retirement gathering is former chapter executive Jennifer Pennington, who was also with the East Georgia Chapter for 10 years.

RMS Has Caught the Giving Bug

2010-03-01T09:51:00.003-05:00

The six grade social studies classes at Russell Middle School donated $643.05 to assist with the relief effort in Haiti. The children had been learning about the small country when the earthquake hit and wanted to try and help. East Georgia Chapter Board Chairman David Waters accepted the check and personally thanked C.J. Cook, a student who made a donation of $100.

School isn’t what it used to be……It’s better!

2010-02-22T09:36:00.002-05:00

Hull-Sanford Elementary is a learning institution in Madison County teaching more than just reading, writing, and arithmetic. These educators are also teaching their students selflessness and compassion.

For two weeks the teachers in each grade have been sharing photos and stories while explaining to the children what has happened in Haiti. This spiraled into a fundraiser, with children bringing in whatever they could to donate to the Haiti relief efforts. Collectively this school raised a whopping $806.

In a school were the ages range from 5 to 10 years old, one would assume the money came from the children’s parents but that wasn’t the case at all. Brothers Zac Collins and Christopher Collins donated the money they received for Christmas. “It’s important because it can help save lives and families,” said Christopher.

And the giving didn’t stop there. Kindergartner Garrett Gilreath emptied out his piggy bank and put every penny into the Haiti Relief Fund. Even as we were taking the picture above Garrett was digging in his pocket and trying to donate his snack money.

Braves are up to Bat for Haiti

2010-02-22T09:27:00.005-05:00

The Atlanta Braves' Troy Glaus, Matt Diaz, Clint Sammons, Eric O'Flaherty, Frank Wren and Glenn Hubbard made an appearance at Academy Sports and Outdoors February 10, 2010 to sign autographs for their biggest fans as part of their Braves Caravan tour around the state. They were also there to help assist the East Georgia American Red Cross in raising money for the Haiti relief efforts.

And what Braves event would be complete without the loveable mascot Homer?! As the Braves were signing autographs, Homer collected donations from the line of fans that wrapped around the store.

The celebrity line-up didn’t end there; we also had an all-star turnout from the volunteers at the American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter, who also collected donations for Haiti and eagerly answered questions for aspiring volunteers.

If you didn’t make it to the event but are still interested in volunteering for Disaster Services have no fear. You can get information by calling the East Georgia Chapter at 706.353.1645 or by visiting http://eastgeorgia.redcross.org/.

Are you as Generous as a 5th Grader?

2010-01-29T08:58:00.004-05:00

The boys and girls of Oconee County Elementary School proved to be in a class of their own by donating $1100 for the Haiti Relief fund. On the day of the fundraiser the students wore their pajamas to school and their hearts on their sleeves. Ms. Evilsizors 4th grade class brought in the most money, winning the much coveted ice cream party. This money will help to fund the Red Cross in providing food, shelter, and medical supplies to the impoverished island of Haiti.

“The students felt deep pain for the children and other victims of Haiti. PJ day was a way to raise money quickly and the students themselves could participate” said OCES paraprofessional Elizabeth Marbut.

If these children have you giddy to give, you can donate to support the relief effort in Haiti at www.redcross.org or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS. Mobile donors can text “Haiti” to 90999 to make a $10 contribution. A $10 donation can provide a family with two water cans to store clean drinking water, a blanket appropriate to the climate or other supplies to give people the ability to cook for their families.

Congratulations Stacy Creighton

2009-10-13T21:08:00.005-04:00

Congratulations are in order for Stacy Creighton, a nursing student at the Medical College of Georgia and a Red Cross volunteer. She was the recipient of one of the 2009 Mattie J.T. Stepanek Caregiving Scholarships from the Rosalyn Carter Institute for Caregiving! Check out the story.

If you are interested in attending the family caregiving seminar November 10, 2009 please call the chapter @ 706-353-1645.

30 and 2 to save you

2009-09-29T00:07:00.011-04:00

The heart is an amazing muscle. Don't believe me?

Experts estimate that your heart beats about 100,000 times in one day and about 35 million times in a year. During an average lifetime, the human heart will beat more than 2.5 billion times.

That is a lot of beating. The next question is, "What happens if it stops?" A stopped heart will not lead to a good day.

Assuming that you were next to someone who was having a heart problem, there are a few steps you can take to care for a person.

You would check to be sure the scene was safe. Next you would check the person. Ask "What is the problem here?" and "Is the person showing signs that could indicate a heart attack?"

If the person was having a heart related emergency, you would then call the local emergency number (911) and let EMS know that you were with a person who was having heart problems.

Last, you would care for the person. If the person was unconscious and not breathing you would administer CPR.

Since you have already taken CPR through the Red Cross , you are confident of your skills. But in that moment you may panic. Just remember 2 breaths and 30 compressions. Continue until EMS arrives.

I found this handy chart on this link. You should share this information with everyone you know. 30 and 2 could save you.

Weekly Worldwide Wrap-Up

2009-09-04T08:29:00.004-04:00

A consolidated report from the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-size news

SENEGAL: Severe flooding has affected hundreds of people, spreading sewage and sorrow across the suburbs of Dakar. Red Crossers have been providing supplies like mosquito nets, tarps, mats, jerry cans, blankets, water, purification tablets, soap and detergents.

MALDIVES: The British Red Cross has completed construction of 250 new homes, allowing survivors from Vilufushi island, which was completely destroyed by the 2004 tsunami, to finally return home.

PERU: The mortal remains of the 28 people who disappeared 25 years ago have been returned to their families. The ICRC arranged for transportation for the families and coffins and providied the families with emotional support.

INDONESIA: Last year the Canadian Red Cross gave disposable cameras to 41 tsuanimi-affected children in Indonesia and asked them to photograph their friends, family, home,villages, schools and things that made them happy. The result is this amazing photo gallery.

Source: American Red Cross Cha t

Watching Little Ones Requires Professionalism!

2009-08-26T14:25:00.016-04:00

So you think you know.... but you have no idea.

Babysitting may sound easy; but it actually takes a lot of knowledge, training, and effort to watch the little ones. From writing a resume and interviews with parents to responding in emergencies and performing first aid, a Red Cross babysitter knows all!

The Red Cross Babysitter's Training is offered for teens between ages 11 to 15, providing the skills and confidence to become a great babysitter. Plus, you can learn how to become a good leader, role model, and decision maker.

So, come on and join our next training class on September 19th or check our schedule for upcoming classes! Bring your friends and siblings. Parents, encourage your teens to get trained. Who knows? You may become famous for being the Best Babysitter on the Block!

Check this out: Gaelan Connell, a teen star starring role in the latest tween megamovie Bandslam, is a Red Cross Babysitter too!

Executive Director Meets Music Sensation!

2009-08-21T08:45:00.007-04:00

Coming to you live in Walton County.... Britney Spears! Well, not exactly, but you can see some similarities to her, right?

This is actually a photo of the Walton Regional Medical Center CEO, Gary Lang. For the past few years, Gary and others have put on a show for the Walton community to celebrate the Walton County United Way fundraising campaign kick-off. This year's theme is "Under the Big Top."

Nancy Kinsey, campaign chair, sums it up. “Sometimes we feel like we have our heads in the lion’s mouth,” said campaign chairman Nancy Kinsey, fully getting into the circus theme as other members of the campaign arrived in full big top gear. “But we have some amazing agencies in Walton County, walking a high-wire act above us to help those in need. The United Way is the safety net for those agencies and the people they help."

Thank you to all of the hard-working individuals at the United Way that raise funds to support the Red Cross and other important agencies!

Did you know...

2009-08-17T10:07:00.001-04:00

The East Georgia has awsome volunteers! Last year disaster volunteers contributed over 20,000 volunteer hours. Check out some of them responding to a disaster scene.

If you would like to find out what volunteering with the Red Cross is all about, check out our website at http://eastgeorgia.redcross.org and click on Volunteer Opportunities.

Keep checking our BLOG site for more info.

Have you visited Red Cross?

2009-08-06T11:44:00.004-04:00

One of our volunteers came across a town by the name of Red Cross.

A town named Red Cross exists in North Carolina located to the east of Charlotte in Stanly County. Ruth and I went through it a couple of weeks ago, and luckily I had a camera. Now I have the proof of its existence. The town has existed for only seven years and the reason for its naming I do not know. Nevertheless, this water tank is very visible from the highway, and it caught me by surprise having been reared about 50 miles away.

Bag Lady

2009-07-31T23:45:00.007-04:00

I was so excited this week when the shipment with my new Red Cross Bag finally arrived at the office. I have been salivating over them since they were released a few months ago. This handy little pouch can be ordered with or without the first aid kit included.

It is great because while sporting the RC logo, it has three sections and the middle one has an inner zipper for the first aid kit. This is more divisions than some purses!

I went for the empty option; I had plans for it.

I started thinking about the all the possible uses of this wonderful little bag. I have listed them in case anyone would find it helpful but know that this is only scratching the surface:

children's toys
coupons
dentures
first aid kit
jewelry
Journey’s greatest hits on cassette*
makeup
markers
medication
mid afternoon snack
nail care set
office supplies
pocket change
power tools
Red Cross certification cards
small dogs
smuggled candy for the movies**
sunglasses

The possibilities are really endless. I’ve opted to use mine as a makeup bag. If you would like to put your creative storage skills to good use please let us know. You can be a Red Cross bag lady (or gentleman) too.

* You know you have one
**I am not endorsing this action

Don't be LOST on your CPR Skills

2009-07-29T11:00:00.006-04:00

My obsession with LOST started about the middle of Season 3. With only one season left, I decided that it would be good if I started at the beginning and got 'caught up' on all the episodes.

It was to my utter horror one day to watch as one of the main characters performed CPR on an unconscious person.

What is he doing? He would not have passed a Red Cross CPR class.

If you would like to learn how to perform CPR correctly we have classes every week. We can't guarantee that you will ever be plane-wrecked on an island in the pacific where you can put them to good use, but maybe you can help save a life here at home.

2009-07-22T15:13:00.003-04:00

Here's the latest video from the National Headquarters of the Red Cross. Thank you to all of our volunteers and contributors!

Welcome To Our New Blog!

2009-07-22T13:52:00.005-04:00

Welcome friends, family, and volunteers to our new East Georgia Chapter Blog. Here you can read about all the classes, events, and inside stuff happening at the chapter and pick up some good Red Cross advice along the way.

We hope to keep the site updated regularly once we get situated, so check in with us and subscribe through e-mail or RSS feed using the links on the top-right side of the page.

Thank you so much for all of your support from the Red Cross East Georgia Chapter!