Volunteering (Page 9)

The Canadian Red Cross was founded in 1896, and since the very beginning women played a crucial role. To mark International Women's Day on March 8, we‘re going  back in time from the beginning of the Red Cross to celebrate the victories, big and small, of women in Canada.

It is Carmen Ferrer’s job to help meet the needs of people who have lost so much in the wake of disasters. As Head of Emergency Operations, she’s responsible for managing the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) regional response to Hurricanes Eta and Iota. Read how she became a leader.

A dedicated emergency management volunteer, a passionate water safety instructor trainer and a loyal educator have received the highest award given by the Canadian Red Cross. The three Alberta volunteers were given the Order of Red Cross, which recognizes extraordinary people who have provided outstanding humanitarian service at home and abroad.

This year was challenging for so many of us as the pandemic changed the way all of us lived. Usually we look back at the year by naming the top blogs but, this year, we thought it was much more important to take a look at those who stepped up in a time of need to help others in 2020. These volunteers gave of themselves when their daily lives were changed as well.

WARNING: This story includes mention of a death by suicide.

Ayden Walter is a registered nurse. She’s a newcomer to Regina and was looking to make connections in her community when she discovered the Friendly Phone program on the Canadian Red Cross website.

Like many people this year, Shawn De Lierre saw his daily life change pretty drastically. The professional squash player traded his racquet and sportswear for a mask and gown to assist the staff and residents at various living facilities in Quebec, including long-term care (LTC) homes.

From volunteering with the Red Cross in his home of Lebanon since he was 18 to now helping the Canadian Red Cross, read about one volunteer's unusual life path.

After 45 years of volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross, Gaétane Rioux is still as caring as ever when she arrives at the scene of a fire. Whether the year is 1975 or 2020, people who are impacted by a disaster all experience a range of strong emotions when their homes are on fire. Gaétane and her fellow volunteers are there to provide compassion and a shoulder to lean on through such challenging times.