Donating blood or blood drives are usually the first thought when the word “Red Cross” comes up, however, their organization does so much more than that!

Juniors Gurleen Kaler and Mia Lake realized just that when co-founding the Red Cross Club at school.

“Red Cross is all about bringing awareness to the global shortage of blood, fundraising to aid in the aftermath of disasters, doing community service, or something even as simple as writing holiday cards to nursing homes,” explained Kaler.

The Red Cross Club plans on hosting a blood drive at the beginning or middle of next school year and more people joining the club means more progress towards their goal. 

Kaler said, “Being a Red Cross member means to help the community in any way possible.” 

“When joining the club, members can work hands-on in the local community by volunteering together in a shelter or donating towards a good cause,” she added. 

According to the Red Cross, “Today, as throughout our long history, the Red Cross depends on generous contributions of time, blood, and money from the American public to support our lifesaving services and programs.”

“Members can help further even beyond our local community too! They can help in raising money to send towards aid for any area needing disaster relief,” Kaler enthused.

Besides the big events and help that Red Cross hosts and gives, smaller actions can be taken by local chapters like the one at WB.

“During meetings, members would focus on brainstorming for ideas as to how we can help the community. We would come together and research where and when we can help, and how,” said Kaler.

“Once we’ve done our research we would plan our event, set the date, and execute the plan! It’s a very collaborative effort and everyone will be championing for a good cause collectively.”

The club is also doing board elections and are open to anyone trying out! Kaler said, “We’re actually holding board elections soon! The leadership positions available as of right now are vice president, treasurer, secretary, and committee lead. Everyone on board, no matter which position, will help plan out and coordinate meetings, and collaborate together,” she added.

If this sounds interesting or fun definitely check out the clubs instagram: @wbredcrossclub, and stop by room #301 sometime next week for their board elections!