Much has been written about today’s “culture of being busy.” With tight work schedules, kids’ activities, social engagements and, of course, the lure of Colorado’s outdoors, people have a lot of priorities battling for their time.
That’s why it was especially meaningful for us at the American Red Cross to honor and thank our volunteers during National Volunteer Week, April 12-18.
Last year, our Colorado volunteers helped nearly 2,700 local families who faced home fires and other disaster situations. They trained tens of thousands of people in lifesaving skills and assisted thousands of military members, veterans and their families.
These volunteers answer the call for help in the middle of the night – sometimes in the freezing cold. They dedicate countless hours to training, preparing and delivering services. They could choose to spend those hours relaxing, sleeping or spending time with their loved ones, but instead, they work hard to prevent and alleviate suffering through the Red Cross.
We hope you will join me in thanking them throughout the year – and consider becoming a Red Cross volunteer alongside them. Visit www.redcross.org/Colorado to learn about the many ways to help and to get involved. Also consider joining us for our Durango Disaster Training Academy this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, when new volunteers will receive the training necessary to become an American Red Cross volunteer and serve those in need. Call (970) 242-6646 for more information about how to get involved.
During National Volunteer Week, we extend our sincerest thanks to the more than 2,000 local Red Cross volunteers who help us fulfill our mission here in Colorado. Thank you for your service!
Eric Myers is executive director for the Red Cross in Western Colorado. Reach him at eric.myers@redcross.org or 242-4851.