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Newsroom Chapter Blog
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Apr
24
4/24/2009 8:04 AM
I joined the American Red Cross when my husband accepted a job at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois in September 1997. My children were in school but I wanted the flexibility to not work when they were off for holidays and teacher days. I started working in Armed Forces Emergency Communications (now called Emergency Communications Services). I would help active duty servicemen and their families keep in touch and verify emergencies to allow the serviceman to return for medical emergencies and funerals. Before cell phones, the American Red Cross message could be the first notification of events from births to deaths.
As Volunteer Chairman, I recruited volunteers; worked with supervisors to see where they were need; logged volunteer hours; ran a quarterly recognition program and coordinated our annual volunteer lunch.
Later, I also helped as the Blood Drive Chairman, coordinating the Monthly Blood Drives at Scott then I was assigned to Special Events Chair and helped spread the word on American Red Cross services at Health Fairs, Spouses Clubs, and Air Fests. I usually work 5 hours per day for 3 days a week at the main office on Scott. At the office I answer questions about volunteering; taking classes; giving blood and buying Disaster Preparedness items.
I have enjoyed the work and the people I have met. I miss the many friends I have seen age out and others who have moved. The main office used to have many people working here but now I find myself often alone. But it has been a pleasure to assist our service members.
Wilma St Onge
Wilma St Onge is a volunteer with the Red Cross Scott Air Force Base Service Center.
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