The American Red Cross is guided by a common mission:

"The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement, will provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies."

The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work. To learn more, view our Services.

"...it is the purpose of the Red Cross, relying upon the active sympathy of the government and the generous support of the people, to continue its work of preparation, until in its councils and in its ranks the whole country shall be represented, standing together, ready for any great emergency, inspired by the love of humanity and the world-wide motto of the Red Cross: In time of peace and prosperity, prepare for war and calamity."

Clara Barton, as quoted in The Red Cross: In Peace and War, "To the People", p. 15. American Historical Press, 1898.