The American Red Cross, founded in 1881, assists people in need every eight minutes. This is achieved simply by the help of volunteers and donations of funds and blood. Every year, the President of the United States proclaims March as Red Cross Month. The American Red Cross consists of volunteers that usually run the blood drives in schools or businesses all around the country, and the month exists to honor the volunteers and donors. You can learn how to become a volunteer or donor by going to redcross.org.

 President Franklin Delano Roosevelt first proclaimed March as Red Cross Month in 1943 during WWII. He wanted to raise awareness of the organization and its humanitarian mission during the war. It is not run by the government and is entirely charitable and roughly 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested into humanitarian services and programs. The American Red Cross is one of the world’s largest volunteer services, and can be found in 187 countries. That means that there are only eight countries in the entire world not home to a Red Cross. The American Red Cross helps with disaster relief, and has many helpful tips on their website which helps families get through these difficult situations.

 The Red Cross primarily stands for humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. Humanity and impartiality are achieved by their consistent desire and drive to assist those in need with zero discrimination. Neutrality, though, is achieved through not intervening in controversies involving political, racial, religious, or ideological natures. Independence is achieved through all acting in accordance to Red Cross principles. Unity is promoted because there can only be one Red Cross in any one country which must be open to all. Finally, it has universality because the Red Cross is established worldwide and all have equal status and responsibilities with helping each other.

 With all that the Red Crosses do across the globe, a month to honor the volunteers and donors is a small medal of gratitude for the service they commit. Senior Kayla Mercer said, “The Red Cross does amazing things for everyone and on top of that is a charitable organization. It is truly a blessing to have them.”