The American Red Cross of West Michigan is bringing a storm of a personality to Grand Rapids. AccuWeather Extreme Meteorologist, star of the hit Discovery Channel TV Series Storm Chasers and West Michigan native – Reed Timmer will be this year’s keynote speaker at the organization’s annual fundraising gala; Red Alert, held this year at 20 Monroe Live.

“I am honored to be the keynote speaker for Red Alert,” said Reed Timmer. “Join me on May 1st in my hometown, Grand Rapids, to raise money for a great cause! This is an exciting opportunity to come together with the community to celebrate the work of the Red Cross not only in Michigan, but across the globe. I’ll be sharing the important roll storm chasers play in disaster preparedness, and give a glimpse into what it’s like to drive the one-and-only Dominator Research Vehicle into the center of a tornado!”

With record-breaking disasters happening all around, millions have turned to the Red Cross for shelter, food and comfort. Red Cross staff and volunteers are trained and ready to quickly mobilize to deliver relief and care, as witnessed locally on February 8, 2019, when 141 residents of the Villa Maria retirement community were evacuated due to extreme local conditions and having been without power for 48-hours in dangerously cold temperatures. The Red Cross was there, opening a shelter for the senior residents and anyone else without power in need of a place to stay; providing meals, cots, blankets and access to medical care, if needed.

Red Alert is made possible by Presenting Sponsor The David and Carol Van Andel Foundation. Further support is graciously provided by Platinum Sponsor and Red Cross Community Partner, Consumers Energy. This inspiring event will be emceed by long-time Red Cross volunteer and media personality – Gabriela De La Vega and will feature a cocktail hour, strolling dinner, silent and live auction.

Ticket and sponsorship information is available at www.redcross.org/RedAlert . Contact, Erin Abel at (616) 456-8661 x 8999, or erin.abel@redcross.org. for more information.

About the American Red Cross: The Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.