Volunteer Appreciation Month: Lukas SaintClair

Lukas SaintClair has lived many lives. His career began in the United States Air Force as an Intelligence Analyst in 1981. While in Germany, Lukas received communication from the Red Cross about a sick family member. “This was back in the 80’s when there were no cell phones. You used radios and MARS networks to communicate,” said Lukas. After receiving the message, Lukas thought to himself that one day, he would help people and join the Red Cross.

Born in Lexington, Kentucky, Lukas has traveled the world. He has painted street art in Paris and Amsterdam, lived in Berlin as an artist, played in a band, and was a visual performance educator. While in Germany with the Air Force, he assisted at Red Cross blood drives. “Life is like riding in a taxicab. Sit back and enjoy the ride. Let life lead you and opportunities will make themselves available,” said Lukas.

When Lukas’ father became ill, he decided to move back to Kentucky to be with him in his final days. While at home, Lukas decided to get involved with the Red Cross Eastern Kentucky Chapter. Lukas became a disaster mental health volunteer (DMH) as a clinical counselor. Once he retired from counseling, he switched over to be a disaster action team volunteer (DAT).

“We show up behind the fire department during disasters. Families and individuals who are impacted don’t have to worry about what they are going to do, what they will wear, or where to go. We give them relief to take care of immediate needs for the next few days,” said Lukas. It’s important for DAT volunteers to respond quickly and be on site within a matter of hours. Due to this, Lukas built his own response vehicle and kept it packed with blankets, care kits, water, and snacks. “We have no idea how fragile this planet is. Things can change in a heartbeat. I love being a DAT responder. Best job I’ve never been paid to do,” said Lukas.

Lukas considers himself a full time Red Cross volunteer. He is always up for any DAT job and considers himself a part of the “A-team.” Lukas has a robust educational background, with Bachelor of Arts and Master of Education degrees in counseling and human development. He is currently working on a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and a Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Apologetics. Lukas sees the Red Cross as one big family. “If somebody comes up with a Red Cross on their shoulder, they are immediately my family,” said Lukas.

The Kentucky Region is grateful to have committed and caring volunteers like you, Lukas! This #VolunteerAppreciationMonth, we are recognizing some of our dedicated volunteers. You can become a Red Cross volunteer by going to redcross.org.