Volunteers 24

Today, August 19, marks World Humanitarian Day and to honour aid workers and volunteers around the world, we’ve compiled a few stories of people who dedicate their time to humanitarian efforts.

After volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross for 25 years, Carole Campbell has seen the organization grow in Manitoba and says she has grown with it.

Red Cross volunteer Fabrice Vanhoutte loves putting a smile on children’s faces. So, he has plenty of tricks up his sleeve for the young people in a Saskatoon shelter.
 
“If I see a kid who is upset, I don’t necessarily go right up to them but I stay nearby and play my mouth organ or start showing a card trick,” says Vanhoutte.
 

Lynn MacLeod didn’t worry when she volunteered to fly across the country to help people affected by the Saskatchewan wildfires. She knew that she was well-prepared.

“I’m so happy for all of our Red Cross training! It means I can go anywhere in the country and know how to help,” says MacLeod, who is from Prince Edward Island.

More than 150 Canadian Red Cross volunteers and staff from the Prairies and other parts of Canada have been mobilized to assist thousands of people who had to evacuate their homes in Northern Saskatchewan as a result of fires. 

Canadian Red Cross appreciates the ongoing dedication of volunteers across the country dedicated to helping in times of disaster, emergency, community health and training through various programs.
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Volunteers in Ontario will receive recognition from the Canadian Red Cross for their volunteer work on May 22; here are three such volunteers and their stories of volunteerism.

Volunteers bring many different skills and talents to the Canadian Red Cross. Volunteering isn’t one size fits all! Check out this interactive quiz to find your volunteer type. ​

Did you know that over 20,000 Canadians dedicate their time to helping others as Red Cross volunteers? As we mark National Volunteer Week, it’s time to say thank you to these everyday heroes!