 Since World War I, youth learn the importance of service and leadership through volunteerism
St. Louis, Monday, September 24, 2007 - In September, the American Red Cross celebrates 90 years of significant contributions made by youth volunteers in support of the Red Cross mission to help the community prevent, prepare for and respond to disasters and emergencies. President Woodrow Wilson first established the Junior Red Cross in September of 1917, soon after the United States entered World War I, allowing youth to do their part in times of both war and peace.
"Youth have played a vital role in the history of the Red Cross, and that continues today," said Deane Adam, director of youth services for the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter. "The St. Louis Area Chapter relies on the dedication of youth volunteers to help us serve the local community. Last year, local YouthCorps members educated nearly 6,700 people in disaster preparedness, CPR, and First Aid."
The Red Cross highly values its volunteers, which enable the organization to deliver diverse programs and services both locally and nationally. The organization's youth bring a wealth of enthusiasm to the Red Cross movement, starting clubs, educating peers, and participating in community service projects. These volunteers serve their community through more than 700 Red Cross chapters nationwide, helping their peers be safe while gaining real-world experience.
"We want the public to be aware of the valuable contribution youth make in our community, our nation and our world," continued Adam. "Thanks in part to their 6,340 hours of volunteer service during the 2006-2007 school year, the St. Louis Area Chapter was able to touch the metropolitan area more than 410,000 times last year."
About Red Cross YouthCorps:
The American Red Cross YouthCorps Program is designed for middle school and high school teens. YouthCorps trains individuals in the programs and services of the American Red Cross during after-school group sessions held once a week. Training focuses on health and safety and disaster preparedness. The Red Cross curriculum is then taught throughout area schools by YouthCorps members, who also remain active in community outreach through various service projects.
Members of the St. Louis Area Chapter's YouthCorps have an exceptional opportunity to improve their public speaking skills, learn how to plan an event, lead a meeting, and motivate others to volunteer through leadership development training. Two YouthCorps members currently serve on the local Board of Directors.
For More Information:
To learn more about Red Cross YouthCorps and other youth services provided by the St. Louis Area Chapter, please call 314.516.2717, or log on to www.redcrossstl.org.
About the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter:
Founded in 1917, the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter celebrates 90 years of dedicated service, providing emergency relief and preparedness training more than 410,000 times each year. The Red Cross is not a government agency and depends on the efforts of thousands of volunteers and donors to provide a wide range of community support services, including disaster relief, first aid and CPR training, water safety, services to military personnel and support for blood services. The Chapter, a United Way agency, provides programs and services to St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County and Jefferson County in Missouri, as well as Monroe, St. Clair (including Scott Air Force Base) and part of Madison County in Illinois. All disaster relief services are provided free of charge thanks to the generosity of the American people. To learn more about Red Cross programs, volunteer opportunities, and how you can help, contact the St. Louis Area Chapter at 314.516.2800 or www.redcrossstl.org.
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