Red Cross Month Honors Growing Volunteerism That Spans Generations

Red Cross Month began during World War II as a national call to action to address growing humanitarian needs. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed the first proclamation declaring March to be Red Cross Month in 1943. Since then, it has evolved into an annual community tradition — one that underscores the enduring power of compassion and what people can accomplish together.

President Franklin Roosevelt signs a proclamation declaring March to be Red Cross Month

For 145 years, the American Red Cross has been part of communities across the country — a legacy made possible by the generous spirit of volunteers who come together in moments of need. Red Cross volunteers bring care and comfort during someone’s darkest hour. They help facilitate the safe collection of blood. They teach CPR and first aid so that people know what to do while waiting for help to arrive. And they install free smoke alarms and provide home fire education in neighborhoods at risk for home fires. In short, their actions continue to bring communities together and ensure that hope is never far away.

This Red Cross Month, we are honoring the growing number of people across generations who are stepping forward to support their communities when help can’t wait. New Red Cross data highlights a nationwide surge in volunteerism, reflecting how individuals of all ages are strengthening communities and caring for one another.

Volunteers make up 90 percent of the Red Cross workforce, spanning every generation — from Gen Z to the Silent Generation — demonstrating that service has no age limit and that every action makes a meaningful difference.

A group of volunteers install free smoke alarms in a Des Moines, Iowa neighborhood

Over the past three years, the number of Red Cross volunteers has grown by nearly 25 percent, totaling more than 325,000 people nationwide. This growth mirrors the country’s broader post‑pandemic rebound in community service and highlights a remarkable trend: Gen Z is now the fastest‑growing group of Red Cross volunteers, driven largely by growth in student-led Red Cross clubs.

“Generation after generation, our community has shown that compassion is one of its greatest strengths,” said Jill Orton, American Red Cross of Nebraska-Iowa Region CEO. “In moments when help is needed, volunteers of all ages and backgrounds come together to offer care, comfort and hope. Their commitment reflects a shared humanitarian spirit that connects us across time and continues to make a meaningful difference through our lifesaving mission — one that has supported families for more than half of our country’s 250-year history.”

Red Cross volunteers provide support during flooding in Grand Island, Nebraska

In 2025, Red Cross volunteers in the Nebraska-Iowa region responded to 989 disasters, installed 4,713 free smoke alarms and hosted 5,958 blood drives. We are proud to recognize their work this month and every month as they help us continue to fulfill the Red Cross mission.

During Red Cross Month, we honor how people today deliver support when help can’t wait, and you can join the celebration by giving your time and talent to a volunteer role with the Red Cross. If you are looking to serve your community as part of a team, there is a place for you.  You can find a volunteer role that fits your interests and schedule by visiting redcross.org/volunteer.