Volunteers 1

Read blog posts from the Canadian Red Cross about our network of volunteers at home and abroad

Latest Posts

Why I Volunteer With The Canadian Red Cross: Volunteers Share What Motivates Them

Two Canadian Red Cross volunteers wearing Red Cross vests, holding a teddy bear.

Behind every volunteer, there is a unique story. Yet, despite their different backgrounds and experiences, they have one thing in common: a strong will to help people going through a crisis.

Celebrating Our Volunteers: The Heart of the Canadian Red Cross

A collage of headshots featuring Canadian Red Cross volunteers.

This National Volunteer Week (April 27 to May 4, 2025), we’re celebrating the incredible individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to the Canadian Red Cross. Our volunteers are the heart of the organization and bring the mission of the Canadian Red Cross to life. 

Acting With Heart: Martine Lalonde’s Commitment to the Canadian Red Cross

Martine Lalonde stands in front of a podium, with a large Canadian Red Cross logo on screen behind her.

On March 20, the Canadian Red Cross hosted its 20th annual fundraising event at New City Gas, bringing together more than 325 guests for an evening filled with emotion and generosity. Among the highlights of the evening, Martine Lalonde, a volunteer from the greater Montreal area, touched the hearts of all present.

Harrison Builds Community Connections, One Call at a Time

Harrison Brooke smiles while sitting at a table, typing on a laptop.

For Harrison Brooke, volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross began as an opportunity to give back to his community while learning new skills. In 2021, he joined the Friendly Calls program, a Red Cross initiative that provides people with emotional support and community connections through regular phone call check-ins. 

National Volunteer Week Spotlight: Florence Barron

Florence Barron being presented the Order of the Red Cross

Florence Barron began volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross back in the early 1960s. As she marks her 60 years of service, Florence remains steadfast in her volunteer endeavours and commitment to giving back to the community.  

Cyclone Lola: My Experience in the South Pacific

Aerial drone photo of the aftermath from Cyclone Lola

In October 2023, the Canadian Red Cross used its International Disaster Relief Fund (IDRF) to fund the deployment of Operations Officer Mark McCaul to support our International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) colleagues in Fiji during cyclone season.

Inspired by his father to become a Friendly Calls volunteer

Murray Hill wearing glasses and smiling at the camera

The Red Cross has always been an organization close to Murray Hill’s heart. Throughout his childhood, his father instilled in him that the Red Cross makes a difference in people’s lives all over the world. This deep reverence is what eventually prompted Murray to become a Red Cross volunteer with the Friendly Calls program.

Compassionate Connections: The Red Cross Friendly Calls Program in Action

infographic: its more than just a phone call - its about connection and community

During a challenging time in her life, Regina discovered a source of unwavering support and understanding: the Red Cross Friendly Calls program. Matched with Jan, a compassionate volunteer, Regina found solace and companionship that transcended mere words: "I felt like she knew me."

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About The Blog

The purpose of this blog, quite simply, is to talk. This blog is an opportunity for Red Cross staff, volunteers, supporters and friends to share stories about what is happening in your community and the important work you are doing. It is a tool that will help keep all of us connected.

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