One North Texas American Red Cross volunteer received a special honor in February 2024 for serving the organization's mission and selfless service to others. Jeff Franzen donated an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) in response to Eric Klein's unwavering dedication. The ERV is affectionately known as "Eric Klein."

Franzen, a Red Cross disaster volunteer from the Central Florida Region, became aware of Klein eight years ago when he needed information and geospatial planning for disaster services. Whenever Franzen had a question that no one else could answer, the solution was to "call Eric." He says that Klein's knowledge is vast, and his assistance spreads from coast to coast.

"The Red Cross relies heavily on donations to fund its vital work, from responding to home fires to large-scale disasters,” said Franzen. “I've seen firsthand how these contributions translate into real help for people facing their darkest hours. Whether it's a few dollars or a larger gift, your support enables the Red Cross to continue its crucial mission of alleviating human suffering."

The vehicle sporting Klein's name went into service in early 2024, supporting Floridians between Sarasota and Daytona Beach. Just six months after starting service, Bob and Sue Kosick of Leesburg, Florida, drove it to Texas to support the relief efforts needed as Hurricane Beryl made its way across the Gulf Coast. Since Klein's home territory is North Texas, the initial use of the donated ERV in his home state was especially appropriate.

“We delivered people meals who had lost power or were at shelters and cooling stations,” said Sue Kosick. “That’s what we do, we like mass care, feeding and supplying materials to folks after disasters like Hurricane Beryl. Most days, we met at either Mercy Kitchen in Katy or at one of 10 Cracker Barrels, where we picked up food twice a day. The last day, we went to Angleton to an apartment complex that had lost power.”

On Friday, July 12, the Red Cross served meals to 14,000 Texans thanks to volunteers like Bob and Sue Kosick, Jeff Franzen and Eric Klein. The Kosick couple’s first disaster was Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

Klein's expertise in disaster relief mapping and information processing has significantly enhanced the Red Cross's disaster response capabilities. His willingness to help anyone at any time, as well as his wisdom and patience, have impacted countless volunteers and staff members.

“Eric is incredible. I’m lucky to have him as a volunteer partner,” said Red Cross North Texas Regional Disaster Officer Katrina Farmer. “He knows every aspect of our operation. Eric has helped conceptualize projects and then worked with regional and national teams to put them into place. He supports every aspect of our disaster response efforts, including taking on significant leadership roles as needed.”

He currently supports the North Texas Region as a volunteer partner to the regional disaster officer and serves as the regional program lead for information and planning. In addition, Klein works with the Red Cross' national headquarters to support geospatial information systems, Red Cross View, and other decision-support applications. Given his level of engagement, he says that he volunteers with the Red Cross more or less full-time.

To support the Red Cross, visit redcross.org/donate. "Every donation, regardless of size, makes a significant impact on the Red Cross's ability to respond to disasters and support communities in need," Franzen said.