This week, May 8^th to May 15^th, we are celebrating AmeriCorps Week. The celebration will probably get lost in the shuffle of Mothers’ Day, Graduations and celebrating our volunteers, but around the Chapter we should tip our hats to Jack Riegel, Elaine Hegel, Kate Johnson, Nicole Holtgrefe, Angela Hakim, Elena Sabin and Marie Major who are AmeriCorps Alums. They, at one time or another, accepted the challenge to Get Things Done. They joined the over 574,000 members who have served since 1994 and contributed their hours to the 718 million project hours.

My AmeriCorps tour has taken me into the VA Hospitals, out with the Disaster Action Team after fires, and to many St. Louis organizations and church groups wishing to know more about Community Disaster Education. Then there are volunteers and staff-- all dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others while stretching the dollar to do the most good for the most people. What a tour!

As an AmeriCorps Member I have had the privilege of talking before some 7000 people through presentations on Community Emergency Preparedness. As end of the 10-month tour nears I can’t help but review the notes, plaques, coasters, and even a little plastic guardian angel. What I really want to know is how many listeners will be moved enough to take action to prepare themselves and families. How many will actually walk around the house and put a kit together? How many will acquire the extra batteries? … or …. Take the challenge to add one item per shopping trip to the kit?

Happy AmeriCorps Week!

Susan

Susan DeWitt is the AmeriCorps Member – NPRC for the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter.