2012 End of Year Donations

			Southern Missouri Region 1545 N. West Bypass Springfield MO 65803 417-832-9500 Ext. 107 417-207-6349 Cell Media Contact:  Nigel Holderby nigel.holderby@redcross.org

 

Red Cross Responds 24/7/365

Yes, Even on Holidays.

 

American Red Cross, Southern Missouri Region: 1/31/2012

Update regarding the Southern Missouri Red Cross response during the week of Christmas:  Across the 40 county Region, YOUR Red Cross had 22 single family fire responses serving 64 people, providing over $11,000 in direct financial assistance. Of those served only 14% were insured.  Many of these fires required multiple fire departments fighting the blaze for hours which means that volunteers also provided warm food, coffee and water for firefighters and first responders in the freezing weather.

“One county sheriff I talked to said, “Debi, I know you will take care of the family, just wanted you to know our firefighters will be on scene with this fire for several hours so they could use a hot drink out there.” A special thanks to our incredible volunteers – who left families and celebrations, got up in the middle of the night in the freezing weather, to fulfill this requests and so many others.  They provided help and hope to these families when they needed it most. Words can’t express how thankful we are, and the appreciation we have for Volunteers, the critical work they do, and the caring way they do it!” said Debi Meeds Regional CEO.

As 2012 draws to a close we ask that you take a moment to make a tax-deductible gift by midnight tonight and help us get ready for a year of new opportunities to provide hope to someone who desperately needs it. We don’t know who will need our help in 2013. But we know people will depend on us – and we depend on you.

You can be part of a global community of people linked together by one common goal: the desire to help those in need. Wherever there is suffering, wherever there are people in need of help, the Red Cross will be there – because of you.

Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross at 1545 N. West Bypass, Springfield MO. 65803 or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

 

2012 Everyday Heroes Nominations now open for 2013

			Southern Missouri Region 1545 N. West Bypass Springfield MO 65803 417-832-9500 Ext. 107 417-207-6349 Cell Media Contact:  Nigel Holderby nigel.holderby@redcross.org

 

Everyday Heroes for 2013

Nominations are now open December 15 – January 15

 

American Red Cross Southern Missouri Region: 12/17/2012

 

What is a Hero?

Hero: A person admired for his/her achievements and noble qualities; one that shows great courage.

 

Most people know a hero by this definition; maybe it’s your neighbor or co-worked who went above and beyond the call of duty in a time of need. A young or elderly person who volunteers his/her time helping others, or someone who saved a life. The American Red Cross and KY3 want to hear your story of a Hero’s courage and the difference they have made in your life.

The 2012 Everyday Heroes nominations are now open. We want to know who has made a difference in your life or in the community you live in during 2012. Please visit our website event page http://www.redcross.org/news/event/2013-Everyday-Heroes or our facebook event page to nominate a hero online.  Nominations are open until January 15, 2013.

 

The event to honor those selected will be held on March27, 2013 from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm at The Ramada Oasis Hotel & Convention Center 2546 N. Glenstone in Springfield, MO. Lunch will be served with all proceeds from the event going to benefit The American Red Cross. You can help support The Heroes and The Red Cross in your community by sponsoring a table; $300 for a table of 10. Bring your co-workers or family!

 

For more information about nominations or the event day itself, please contact Shawn Gallagher via email: shawn.gallagher@redcross.org or by phone at 417-836-9500 ext 132

 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

 

 

In Service,

 

K. Nigel Holderby

Chief Communications Officer

Please Note My New Email: nigel.holderby@redcross.org

American Red Cross

Southern Missouri Region

(417) 832-9500 ext 107 (p) 

(417) 207-6349 (c)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Santa? Is That You?

Have you ever wondered what Santa does the other 364 days of the year? I discovered his secret while working in New Jersey with Volunteers from across the country, who like myself, were part of the massive response efforts helping people after Superstorm Sandy made a mess of the east coast.

Gregg Blankley, from Toledo Ohio, has a twinkle in his eye, a snow white beard and a laugh that comes from deep in his jolly round belly. It's no wonder he is quickly referred to as Santa by all those who meet him. But it's more than just a look. Greeting everyone with a smile and a sincere word of kindness, one can't help but feel a little magic in the air after a visit with "Santa."

Watching the news coverage of the devastation after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, he said "I have to do something!" and he has been a Red Cross Volunteer now for the last 7 years. Working with the Greater Toledo Area Chapter he has been deployed on 3 large disasters and responds to fires and other local disasters as part of the Disaster Action Team. And...a few days out of the year you can even catch him at the Toledo Zoo, spreading some holiday cheer, dressed in a fur lined red suit.

So for 364 days out of the year, the jolly ol' elf does the same thing he does on December 25th. He gives a gift of love to those around him. He gives his time to help those in need through his service with the American Red Cross, giving people a reason to believe in the kindness of strangers.

The time I spent working with Gregg as he delivered meals in his Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) made it very clear to me that Santa is real. The selfless devotion he gave to making one more food delivery, even after what had already been a 15 hour day. The smile on his face as he said a cheerful goodnight, and went to catch a few hours’ sleep on a cot in a room full of snoring men. The skip in his step as he jumped in the ERV at 4:30 am to get breakfast to a crowd of people who had lost everything.

Santa to me is all about believing in something bigger than you. It's about kindness and love and doing for others. It’s about putting others before one’s self, and making the lives of those suffering a little more bearable. Your secret is safe with me Santa...I believe.          

Do you?

2012 Holiday Safety Tips

			Southern Missouri Region 1545 N. West Bypass Springfield MO 65803 417-832-9500 Ext. 107 417-207-6349 Cell Media Contact:  Nigel Holderby nigel.holderby@redcross.org

 

American Red Cross Offers Safety Tips for the Holidays

 

American Red Cross, Southern Missouri Region 12/11/12 — While people in the Southern Missouri Region are finalizing plans for holiday events and travel, the Red Cross has tips to help prevent accidents and emergencies.

“Following a few simple tips can help make the holiday season safe and enjoyable,” said Nigel Holderby, American Red Cross Chief Communications Officer.

 

Holiday Decorations and Parties

·         Place Christmas trees at least three feet away from any heat sources and exits. Water the tree daily.

·         Don’t overload electrical outlets and unplug holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed.

·         Keep candles away from combustible materials and in a place where children and pets can’t get to them.

·         Pick a designated driver when attending a party and provide non-alcoholic beverage options if hosting a party.

·         Keep children and pets away from the stove; turn pot handles in; and turn off burners if leaving the kitchen.

 

Holiday Travel

·         Make sure vehicles are in good working order before holiday trips. This includes checking tire air pressure and windshield fluid, and cleaning lights and windows.

·         Equip vehicles with an emergency preparedness kit with water, snacks, flashlight, first aid kit and blankets.

·         Check weather and road conditions before traveling.

·         Share travel plans including intended route and estimated arrival time with someone.

 

No matter where people are spending the holidays, downloading the American Red Cross First Aid App allows users to have information on what to do in emergencies when and where they need it. A variety of mobile apps are available at redcross.org/mobileapps.

 

“Taking a Red Cross First Aid and CPR/AED course is a great New Year’s resolution,” Nigel Holderby said. Information about courses and how to register is at redcross.org/takeaclass.

 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

 

2012 Holiday Discount for Red Cross Courses and Products

			Southern Missouri Region 1545 N. West Bypass Springfield MO 65803 417-832-9500 Ext. 107 417-207-6349 Cell Media Contact:  Nigel Holderby nigel.holderby@redcross.org

 

Special Holiday Offers on American Red Cross Courses and Products

 

American Red Cross, Southern Missouri Region 12/6/2012 — Each year, nearly 4 million people learn how to save a life in American Red Cross First Aid and CPR/AED training classes. People in Southern Missouri can take advantage of special offers now through January 31, 2013.

 

“Emergencies occur every day, but with travel, extra stress and large gatherings, people are even more susceptible to accidents and illnesses during the holidays,” said Debi Meeds, Red Cross Regional CEO “Make sure your family and household members have the skills and confidence to act in an emergency until help arrives.”

 

First Aid and CPR/AED Training
People can save 20 percent on the price of a First Aid and CPR/AED course. Participants learn how to perform CPR and use an AED, what to do if someone is choking, and how to prevent and respond to other emergencies. How to control bleeding as well as how to care for seizures and other sudden illnesses are also covered. 

 

Red Cross First Aid and CPR/AED training helps meet OSHA standards and professional licensure requirements. Courses are offered in traditional classroom and blended learning formats. Blending learning is a combination of online learning and a shorter in-person skills session. The course fee includes a 2-year certification with online skill refreshers and digital materials.

 

People can call 1-800-REDCROSS or go to redcross.org/takeaclass for course schedules and to register. Use HOLIDAY0113 as the coupon code to receive the 20 percent discount.

 

Lifesaving training courses can make a great gift for new parents, caregivers and those who need to refresh their skills. People can register loved ones by calling 1-800-REDCROSS and selecting Health and Safety training from the menu options.

 

Health and Safety Products

The Red Cross is also offering 20 percent off the price of First Aid Kits and other emergency preparedness items available at redcrossstore.org. Use the HOLIDAY0113 coupon code to receive the 20 percent discount. These special offers on training and products cannot be combined with other discounts.

 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

 

 

In Service,

 

K. Nigel Holderby

Chief Communications Officer

Please Note My New Email: nigel.holderby@redcross.org

American Red Cross

Southern Missouri Region

(417) 832-9500 ext 107 (p) 

(417) 207-6349 (c)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Red Cross Gets Fashionable for Disaster Relief

Pre-show begins at 5:30 p.m.
Fashion show begins at 6:00 p.m.
Silent auction and refreshments to follow
Admission to the show: Minimum $5 donation

Location: Southern Missouri Regional Red Cross Office in Springfield, MO
1545 N. West ByPass

Last year these young ladies raised funds to donate to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. This year Destinee is at it again. You won't want to miss her Fashion Show Fundraiser on December 8, 2012.

Destinee Douty is currently a Junior at Everton High School.  She joined the Red Cross as a "junior member' after hearing information regarding the Red Cross presented at Everton's annual Career Fair in 2011.  During that same Career Fair, Destinee had the opportunity to meet with Josh Porter, a representative from MSU's Department of Fashion Design, to discuss her interest in designing clothes.  Immediately following, Destinee and the other Everton School volunteers began fundraising activities and community help projects as representative of the Red Cross Organization. 

During one brainstorming session, the original idea of making and selling Fashion scarves as a fundraiser quickly morphed Destinee into the idea of using her passion for designing clothes as a fundraiser.  Destinee is a fan of Laguna Beach, the TV show, and watched one episode about a group of teenagers putting on a fashion show for charity. The idea of taking her drawings and turning them into outfits from which others would benefit so excited her that she immediately began planning. She knew this fundraiser require long hours of work and diligence, but that was only a minor detail considering the contribution she felt she could make to the Red Cross.

In January of 2012, determined not to rely on the generosity of adults to make her dream happen, Destinee began the process of interviewing classmates and friends - deciding who she would like to have model her designs, and finding those who would have time to help her with fundraising activities to pay for the needed fabric and supplies. For the past year, two to three times a week, Destinee has been designing, sewing, buying, fundraising, and fitting her models with outfits for this fashion show fundraiser.  Her dedication to this dream goes deeper, however, because her road has been riddled with setbacks.  For one thing, Destinee had never sewn a stitch in her lifetime.  She searched and found someone to help with that void and after some lessons on cutting, patterning, and sewing, she has learned much.  In addition, her Thyroid Disease, previously under control, flared up, making the road difficult to travel - not to mention school and homework expectations. But she did not give up!

Almost one year later, Destinee's dream coupled with her compassion for others is becoming a reality.  On Saturday, December 8, 2012, her "Designs by Destinee 'Rearview Mirror Collection' " will be shown and all proceeds donated to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.