For International Women’s Day (March 8), we’re sharing inspiring stories of women who work with us to help others. Hear from these amazing volunteers and their awe-inspiring experiences, in their own words.
Helga Bender, a Canadian Red Cross emergency management volunteer from Alberta, shares her experience helping in Brandon, Manitoba last October when thousands of people were evacuated after a terrible snow storm had caused massive power outages. This happened to be her first time in the field.
In her own words: First time in the field with the Canadian Red Cross
Ann Deane, an emergency management volunteer from New Brunswick, spent her life teaching children and using her patience to educate future generations. Here, she tells us why – upon retirement – she decided to start volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross:
In her own words: Retired teacher Ann Deane shares her story about being a Canadian Red Cross volunteer
Brandy Cheramie of Nova Scotia grew up and raised her three children in southeast Louisiana where they were impacted by many tropical storms and flooding - including Hurricane Katrina. After moving to Canada, she started volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross to help others who have been through disasters as well.
In her own words: She joined the Red Cross after living through Hurricane Katrina, now she helps others impacted by disasters
Suha Nassour recently immigrated to Canada and wanted to give back to her community. She started volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross in the HELP program and has assisted in public education through emergency preparedness presentations.
In her own words: volunteer Suha Nassour shares why she gives back to her new community
Tammy Saunders is a commercial fisher, and says the seasonal nature of her work gives her portions of the year that she likes to fill with volunteering, which she does with the Canadian Red Cross.
“Kindness is one of the most undervalued virtues that we must share,” Tammy said when asked what inspires her to volunteer, “It is free to give and priceless when received. I've been volunteering with various organizations since I was 11.”
In her own words: Nova Scotia fisher finds time to volunteer.
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