Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
RENO, Nev. (May 18, 2024) — The American Red Cross of Northern Nevada will celebrate the extraordinary contributions of 12 local volunteers at its annual Volunteer Recognition Event. The ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 18, at the South 40 at 1445 South Meadows Pkwy. in Reno from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. These individuals, along with more than 450 other volunteers across Northern and Rural Nevada, will be recognized for their unwavering dedication to community support.
The event honors volunteers for their involvement in key Red Cross initiatives, including disaster relief efforts nationwide, response to flooding and residential fires, emergency preparedness, assistance to military families, teaching lifesaving skills and introducing students to preparedness.
Over the past year, volunteers from Northern and Rural Nevada have collectively contributed over 11,000 hours of service. Tiandra Rushing, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter, emphasized the indispensable role of these volunteers: “Our volunteers are well-trained and deeply devoted to assisting those in need. The Red Cross’s mission could not be fulfilled without their significant efforts.”
The ceremony’s highlight will be the presentation of The Clara Barton Honor Award for Meritorious Volunteer Leadership to Jim Rich of Reno. Named after the American Red Cross founder, this award recognizes outstanding volunteer leadership.
Rushing commended Rich’s dedication: “Jim’s unwavering commitment as the Disaster Action Team coordinator and government services liaison showcases an extraordinary dedication to serving others. His patient and respectful demeanor, combined with exceptional training abilities, have not only fostered trust and respect among clients but have also enhanced the Red Cross’s reputation within our northern Nevada community.”
Saturday’s awardees include:
Jim Rich Clara Barton Honor Award for Meritorious Volunteer Leadership
Michael Allgaier Rising Star Volunteer Award
David Kidwell Business Operations Volunteer Award
Catherine Bonfiglio Communications Volunteer Award
Cherie Reisinger Disaster Preparedness Volunteer Award
Randi Hunewill Disaster Response Volunteer Award
Anushka Madhira Outstanding Red Cross Club Member of the Year Award
Olivia Ho Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award
Andrea Tatkon-Coker Service to the Armed Forces Volunteer Award
Paulette Bridges Volunteer Services Volunteer Award
Linda Newman Volunteer Leadership Award
Kirk Yates Special Citation for Exceptional Volunteer Service
Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region, expressed her gratitude for the dedicated volunteers: “Every day, I am thankful for the committed volunteers who form the backbone of the American Red Cross. With the rise in frequency and severity of disasters, the necessity for volunteers has never been more critical. I urge community members to join our ranks.”
Become a Red Cross volunteer today
The demand for compassionate volunteers is growing as we face larger and more complex disasters. By becoming a Red Cross volunteer, you can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need. Training is provided. To join our team, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.
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.