As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, the American Red Cross honors the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities to our society. From disaster responders to dedicated blood donors, the impact of Hispanic heritage is woven into the fabric of our mission. This month, we shine a spotlight on the vital role of Hispanic Red Cross volunteers and we invite you to become part of this important work.
Why Multicultural Communications Matter
At the Red Cross, effective communication is essential to delivering our mission. In times of disaster, clear and accurate information can save lives. Our Multicultural Communications team ensures that messages resonate with diverse communities, breaking down language and cultural barriers to ensure that everyone has access to critical services.
However, the demand for these services continues to grow. Whether it's translating vital information, engaging with local media, or helping communities prepare for emergencies, the need for volunteers who can bridge cultural gaps is greater than ever.
The Power of Hispanic Heritage in Mission Delivery
Hispanic volunteers bring invaluable perspectives and skills to the Red Cross. Their understanding of cultural nuances, language proficiency, and deep-rooted connections within their communities significantly enhance our ability to serve all people effectively. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we are proud to spotlight one of our long-standing volunteers, Luisa Torres, the volunteer engagement lead for the Multicultural Communications Team.
Luisa has been an essential part of our team for over five years, supporting communications volunteers in various roles. She provides leadership, guidance and coaching to ensure volunteers are well-equipped to succeed in their work. Luisa also plays a key role in managing virtual volunteers and their assigned projects.
Her energy is contagious, and despite overcoming personal challenges, Luisa's commitment to the Red Cross has never wavered.
When asked what motivates her, Luisa shared, "It motivates me to be a volunteer knowing that my actions, no matter how small they may be, will have an impact. The reach of the Red Cross in the community is impressive, and being part of that link motivates me."
Luisa also expressed her appreciation for being able to connect with volunteers, thanking them for their dedication and hard work. She believes that these small gestures of gratitude uplift the soul and give volunteers the strength to continue giving their best to the organization and the community.
Red Cross Multicultural Communications volunteers are at the forefront of our efforts to create culturally relevant content, engage with Spanish-speaking media, and ensure that our messages reach diverse audiences. They contribute directly to the humanitarian efforts that make a tangible difference in people's lives.
How to Get Involved
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let us unite behind the power of community. and the difference we can make together. We are actively seeking bilingual individuals who can help us deliver our mission. There are many ways to get involved including Spanish proofreader/translators, disaster action team members, shelter volunteers, blood drive ambassadors and blood transportation specialists, to name a few.
To join the Red Cross team, visit redcross.org/volunteer.
Your commitment can help ensure that all communities receive the care and support they need, no matter the challenge.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Take a class and be ready to respond if an emergency strikes.
