Megan Gornet is not a typical member of the Clara Barton Society, a group comprised of charitable donors who give $1,000 or more to the Red Cross annually.  Not only is she the youngest member at 16 years old, she also became a member in a unique and touching way. At her parents urging, the MICDS student asked guests of her 16th birthday party to make contributions to the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter in lieu of gifts. Megan’s friends and family contributed over $1,000 to the Chapter in her honor.

“Although admittedly tentative at first, the pride I felt after receiving card after card of donations in my name was sensational,” Megan said.

Megan recently addressed her fellow Clara Barton Society members at a reception in November.  “I am truly honored to be among such gracious, prestigious, and elite group of people,” Megan said.  She described her experience of giving back to the community as a blessing and a privilege.  Now that she has experienced first-hand the pride and joy of philanthropy, she hopes to inspire others.  “To think that my small donation can make a difference makes me hope that every individual, particularly in this society, recognizes the promising potential they have to profoundly impact our area,” Megan said.

Click here for more information on how to become a member of the Clara Barton Society.

To read more stories of Red Cross volunteers and donors, clck here.