The American Red Cross in the Bay Area depends on its volunteers to carry out its humanitarian work, and today about 3,000 volunteers help their communities through the American Red Cross service delivery. As always, the Red Cross continues to invite people of all ages, backgrounds and capabilities to join its legions of "everyday heroes."

Below are stories of our volunteer heroes...

Victoria Chan has been a youth volunteer for three years and is currently the President of the Aragon High School Red Cross Club and Chair of the San Mateo County YES (Youth Engaged in Service) Team. She oversees and plans service projects for the High School Club and has accomplished some amazing fundraising projects for the Tsunami and Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. She is an expert Preparedness Presenter and has taught earthquake and disaster preparedness in after-school programs and summer programs for underserved children. Victoria says, "I like the aspects of teaching kids; I like seeing their expressions and motivating them to prepare for any future disasters. I always see the Red Cross on the news especially (since the) September 11 tragedy. I am grateful that I have joined the American Red Cross as a youth because my experience has given me reward and a big impact in my life."

"The most gratifying thing for me about volunteering with the Red Cross is knowing that we are serving the community in a much needed and appreciated way."

—Kakuti Lin

Kakuti Lin has served as the East Bay Coordinator for Community Preparedness, directly managing the outreach for our preparedness courses in Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties. She is the first "voice" of the American Red Cross Bay Area (ARCBA) to community agencies, businesses, schools, and residents; responding to inquiries seeking preparedness information. In the months following Katrina, she quietly doubled her time commitment as requests for our courses skyrocketed. She is also a Preparedness Presenter Instructor, a member of the Contra Costa Leadership Council and the chapterwide Preparedness Advisory Committee. Kakuti has helped to solidify a strong presenter base and to increase our preparedness reach in Contra Costa County while providing support to the whole East Bay. Her contributions are invaluable!

Michael Q. Santos works for the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and has been volunteering for ARCBA for 23 years serving in Disaster Services. Michael says "I love working with good volunteers at Red Cross with a lot of diversity. Red Cross has so much to offer and it's been a good learning experience for me. I like volunteering to fill the void in my life. I work nights and volunteer during the day and love doing community service to support the humanitarian work of the Red Cross. I may not be rich in my pocket but I am rich in my heart."

Diana Wong: "I retired from UCSF as a Clinic Manager. I have joined the American Red Cross since 2003 serving in Volunteer Resources and Disaster Services. My volunteering experience with the American Red Cross Bay Area Chapter has been most positive and gratifying because of the numerous opportunities to contribute directly and indirectly to our local community. When disasters strike, Red Cross volunteers are always there to care for and support the affected families. The organization continually provides disaster preparedness information and training to the public."

"I feel committed to our Mission which strengthens my desire to continue volunteering for many years to come. If one has the time and wishes to spend it meaningfully, this is the place to come. Opportunities await you!"

Become part of this story. Support your American Red Cross—volunteer today! See our volunteer openings or call (888) 229-8652 for more information.