Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country
Founded 05-05-05

National Volunteer Week April 27 to May

Red Cross Acknowledges Local Volunteers

It is National Volunteer Week—a time to recognize volunteers and celebrate the spirit of volunteerism. The Watauga County chapter of the Red Cross wants to take this opportunity to thank all of its volunteers. Without their continued support, the chapter would not be able to serve the community with the many services that that it offers.

We all know a volunteer, and many of us are volunteers. We know first hand the selfless nature of people who give with no expectation of being paid for their time.

Volunteers work for free, but volunteers will tell you that they are well paid. They contend that the reward for their work is not money, but is, instead, the satisfaction of helping others, active involvement in the community and the friendships that form through volunteer work.

The theme of National Volunteer Week is Volunteer to Change the World, and that is just what Red Cross volunteers do. Without volunteers, the American Red Cross could not complete its mission to provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.

At the Watauga County Chapter, more than 621 volunteers, 67 community partners and 2 youth organizations help people affected by domestic and international disasters, support blood drives, teach lifesaving skills and serve members of the military and their families.

Volunteers in all fields of the Red Cross organization are always needed. The Watauga County Chapter welcome volunteers of all ages and skills to join in serving the community. To volunteer, contact Cheryl Bickley 828-264-8226 or bellabickley@yahoo.com.