It’s Vital
Over the past year, the outstanding work of the American Red Cross has touched the lives of millions of people affected by disastrous circumstances. Compassion and generosity of donors have allowed the Red Cross to reach people with food, shelter, and comfort during serious emergencies in their lives. The work of the Red Cross has never been more relevant or vital.

It’s Local
In Monroe County, the vibrant and vital mission of the American Red Cross is the human response in the lives of our family, friends, and neighbors during an emergency. When fires, floods, and other natural disasters that often occur without warning demand immediate assistance, your American Red Cross is present, offering resources and care at the real and immediate point of need. When Mrs. Wilson of Elkhart, Indiana, was helping her college-aged daughter move into her new Bloomington apartment, the daughter cut herself and sought help from our nearby Red Cross chapter. In a letter written after the event, Mrs. Wilson said, "The Red Cross has been there for my husband in Vietnam and for me when my brother was 'lost' in the earthquake in California, and you are still there for our daughter! My husband and I consider you 'angels on earth.’"

• In 2007, our chapter responded to 41 local disasters and helped 40 affected individual and families with emergency food, shelter, and supplies. We provided emergency communications for 86 military members stationed around the world.
• In 2007, we trained 200 people in disaster response and preparedness education. We trained 4,619 people in CPR, first aid, babysitting, life-guarding, AED, preventing disease transmission, pet first aid, and Instructor courses, and 1,481 people in aquatics safety.
• Our Lifeline Program has helped 568 clients retain the independence, safety, and security of living in their own homes.

It’s Personal
The Red Cross continues to help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to disasters and other emergencies. Almost everyone has a Red Cross connection. What’s yours?

• Have you or someone you know been helped by First Aid, CPR, or another life saving technique?
• Do you or your children know how to swim because of Red Cross certified lesson?
• Has the Red Cross helped your family during military service?
• Has Red Cross safety information or a training course helped prevent injury for someone in the community?
• Have you found yourself better prepared and more aware of the need to prepare for emergencies?
• Has a babysitter training course benefited you or someone you know?