South Central KY Board Member Profile – Tonya Roth

By Kevin Sandell, American Red Cross volunteer

Tonya Roth is a familiar face in several chapters of the American Red Cross. As a board member now with the South Central Kentucky chapter’s board since 2021, Tonya has also served with the Red Cross Eastern Tennessee Region and is a member of the National Council of the American Red Cross Tiffany Circle.

She is a retired corporate vice president who now devotes time to serving with the Red Cross. As a member of the Tiffany Circle, she also helps oversee the strategy and direction of the philanthropic arm of the American Red Cross, which is comprised of 1,300 women nationwide who each donate $10,000 or more to the Red Cross annually.

Tonya said one of her key roles in serving with the South Central Kentucky chapter is to help them better tell their story throughout the region. Throughout her life, she said, were a “lot of touches of the American Red Cross” in her life, which included earning a lifeguard certification when she was younger, and seeing the American Red Cross serve military service members in her family and others. Serving with the chapter’s board allows her to promote the various services offered by the Red Cross.

“There’s nothing more rewarding,” Tonya said about volunteering with the Red Cross. “…It’s a way to be involved in communities in a structured environment with an organization that touches lives at all ages.”

As a member of the chapter’s board, she believes the South Central Kentucky chapter can be an area leader in blood drives and volunteer recruitment. She also highlighted the chapter’s Warren County Community Adaptation Program, which connects people with other nonprofits to get them the resources they need to outreach their communities.

“There’s a variety of volunteer opportunities available, whether it’s serving with a Disaster Action Team or as a blood donation ambassador,” Tonya said. “The Red Cross stands ready to respond wherever there is need.”

Over the next year, Tonya said she looks forward to adding additional board members to the chapter’s board, and was excited to see the progress of the American Red Cross Kentucky Region’s new headquarters building in Louisville. The building is scheduled to open in July.

For her “full-time” retirement job, Tonya and her husband, who’s a farmer, own a historic barn venue for weddings and events in Bowling Green.

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Cathy Palmer-Ball

Cathy, right. Photos courtesy Cathy Palmer-Ball.

Cathy Palmer-Ball has worked with the American Red Cross in some capacity for 17 years. She decided to volunteer with the Red Cross because its mission was close to her heart.

“The main thread running through all I do for Red Cross is that I've always been in a helping role during my career,” said Cathy. “[T]his enables me to continue that work. It lets me give back to our community and people in their time of need.”

A Louisville Area Chapter volunteer, Cathy started out in blood services. She was also a Board Chair and a member of the WHEELS program advisory board for 10 years before she paused her volunteer career to raise her children and work full-time.

When she returned to volunteering in 2017, she returned to blood services and began volunteering with disaster services as she was retiring from a career in Social Work. Cathy loves being an ambassador at blood drives, greeting donors, managing the schedule, signing volunteers in, and working in the canteen.

“The most interesting part of this role is meeting new people and getting to know them and to show appreciation for the great gift of their blood donation which is always in great need!” said Cathy.

Cathy volunteers in several ways as a disaster volunteer. She deploys to disasters across the country to help with feeding, sheltering, going door-to-door in disaster-impacted areas providing damage assessment, and driving an Emergency Response Vehicle when needed. Most recently, Cathy has become a part of the Disaster Action Team (DAT) and responds to home fires in the Louisville Area Chapter. She is also the regional volunteer lead for onboarding and placing new volunteers, and participates in Sound the Alarm events, where Red Crossers install smoke alarms and provide information on fire safety and prevention to residents.

One of the most memorable experiences Cathy has had with the Red Cross was when she was deployed for three weeks to a Wisconsin army base to work with refugees fleeing Afghanistan.

“It was the opportunity of a lifetime, and we made it work as we went,” said Cathy.

As the Onboarding/Placement Regional Volunteer Lead, Cathy encourages others to volunteer however they can. She recruits volunteers often, and points to being able to help people during a low point in their lives as a reason to volunteer.

“I'm proud to be a Red Cross volunteer and I respect all volunteers and staff for their dedication, hard work and commitment,” said Cathy. “I wish everyone in a position to do so, would volunteer in some capacity.”

When she isn’t volunteering with the Red Cross, Cathy enjoys hiking with her friends and her dog, reading mystery novels, and going to brunch with her mother, friends, and daughters. She loves nature photography, traveling, and volunteers with the children at the Norton Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Thank you, Cathy, for your compassion for others and your dedication to the Red Cross mission!

Learn more about becoming a Red Cross volunteer at redcross.org/volunteertoday.

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Helen Brown

Meet Helen Brown, a Community Volunteer Lead (CVL) and Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteer with the American Red Cross Western Kentucky Chapter. Helen is no stranger to volunteering. She volunteers with FEMA through Hopkins County Emergency Management, and with her local police department and Citizens Police Unit. She was introduced to volunteering with the Red Cross when a tornado hit Providence in Webster County, Kentucky in 2002.

Helen, left. Photos courtesy Helen Brown.

“I went with a church group [to help] and saw all of the Red Cross personnel there,” said Helen. “I was amazed by how they were organized and handling everything.” While she was there, someone noticed her interest and asked if she would be interested in volunteering with the Red Cross.

Since then, Helen has deployed to national disasters and has responded locally to help with single and multifamily fires in Hopkins County. She is also a blood donor and drives an hour to Owensboro to donate at blood drives. Helen has volunteered more than 1,100 hours in various volunteer roles with the Red Cross.

Recently, Helen has also spent time volunteering as a CVL in Hopkins County with Misty Thomas, the Executive Director of the Western Kentucky Chapter, and fellow CVL Vivian McNeil. As a CVL, Helen mans the Red Cross office in Madisonville twice a week and helps Misty share information about the services the Red Cross provides with the Hopkins County community. “I get out into the community, into the organization club meetings, and make it well known in Hopkins County what’s available,” said Helen.

Helen has volunteered in multiple roles during disaster responses, including assisting with information and planning for damage assessment, outreach through external relations, and in mass care roles like sheltering, feeding, logistics and procurement. While Helen prefers to work behind the scenes, one of the things she says she enjoys most about volunteering is helping people in their moments of need.

“99% of the time I'm behind the scenes. It's not about me, […] it’s about me helping somebody,” she said. “It’s how I try to give back. I try to let people know that there are people who care.”

One of the things that sticks with Helen the most about her volunteer experiences is the appreciation from the people she helps. On a past deployment, Helen assisted with flooding in Eastern Kentucky, where she helped provide meals to a little girl and her family.

“Her snapshot is always in my mind,” she recalled. “She was so appreciative. […] And the joy, the appreciation that people will show even in their darkest hour, you know they're appreciative for what you're doing for them.”

Some of the most important things about volunteering, for Helen, are being able to reassure and comfort the people she meets, working to find them the information they need to move forward and letting them know that there are people that care.

Despite her wide experience as a volunteer, Helen stays humble: “I don't feel like I do a whole lot in my volunteer work, but I feel like it's my small way to give back, because I've been blessed.”

Helen thinks it’s important for others to volunteer because it helps with community preparedness. “It gives the community the ability to step in and care for one another,” she said. “It’s neighbors helping neighbors. There are always multiple areas that you can help.” 

When Helen isn’t volunteering, she’s spending time with her family and friends, including her multiple grandchildren. She enjoys reading, music, and traveling with her life partner.

Helen, your dedication to the Red Cross mission and our community inspires us! Thank you for everything that you do! If you are interested in learning more about becoming a Red Cross volunteer, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Richard Peters

As a firefighter of 20 years and a Hardin County native, Richard Peters thought volunteering with the American Red Cross South Central Kentucky Chapter was a perfect fit after he retired.

Photos courtesy Richard Peters

“When I left the fire service, I still felt the need to help folks out in their worst times,” said Richard. “As a firefighter, we relied on the Red Cross for client assistance and also to be there for us and our folks with the canteen services they provided.”

Richard has been volunteering with Red Cross in Elizabethtown for going on four years. Starting out, he was doing intake for residents impacted by disasters and volunteering as part of canteen services. As time went on, he moved into the role of Duty Officer. “As the duty officer […], I field the calls from the National Red Cross line and assign them to the local case workers.”

Richard also helps maintain the fleet that is assigned to the chapter office and makes sure that they are kept ready for service. He helps train new volunteers to fulfill the Red Cross mission. “I have learned that everyone learns at different paces and are willing to do different aspects of the job,” said Richard.

For Richard, volunteering is interesting because of how different each situation can be.

“Everyone reacts differently to a stranger coming in to help,” he said. “Dealing with the emotions of each individual that is involved can be a challenge, but it is a very rewarding challenge in the end.”

One of the most memorable things Richard has experienced with the Red Cross was responding as the tornado that went through Bowling Green, KY in 2021.

“Seeing the diversity in one town and not having an idea that there were so many different nationalities living in the town,” Richard explained. “I remember sitting and talking with an individual that had twin babies and having to have everything I said repeated through an interpreter.”

For Richard, volunteering with the Red Cross means being willing to lend a hand and being able to lift some weight off someone’s shoulders. “If I am able to assist somebody having a bad day, then I have fulfilled the calling that has been placed upon my life,” said Richard.

When he isn’t volunteering with the Red Cross, Richard enjoys working with people and helping in any way that he can. He has spent many hours with volunteer organizations, from the food bank at his church to being a firefighter, and he tries to make a difference however he can.

“If I can help someone, that is all I am out to do,” said Richard. “I just have the heart of a servant and God had placed a calling on my life to do so.”

Thank you, Richard, for all you do! Learn more about volunteering with the Red Cross at redcross.org/volunteertoday

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Michael Randles

Michael and Mylie.
Photos courtesy Michael Randles.

 #VolunteerAppreciationMonth We love having new volunteers representing Gen Z! Michael Randles has always felt called to help people during a crisis. “I am a firefighter EMT by trade in Illinois. I went into service straight out of high school. I was 19 years old,” said Michael. He did some volunteering with disaster response and emergency management organizations, like Team Rubicon. Michael worked in the communications and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) divisions at his local counties’ emergency management department.

Currently, Michael is a thriving college student. “I decided to pursue my bachelor’s degree at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) in Fire Arson and Explosion Investigation,” he said. Michael knew he wanted to keep volunteering while at college. “Red Cross has always been on my bucket list. I admire what they do, especially for victims of house fires,” said Michael.

Michael volunteers with our Red Cross Eastern Kentucky Chapter as a member of the Disaster Action Team (DAT), Duty Officer, and Disaster Health Services (DHS). “I do Duty Officer most frequently. That works best for me because I can do it from my dorm room. I get dispatched for disasters in my area. I verify the event, make initial contact with families, and assign DAT responders to work with them,” said Michael.

Deployed virtually for the 2021 western Kentucky tornados and the 2022 eastern Kentucky floods, Michael worked as a Disaster Health Services volunteer. “We filtered through requests of people who had unmet medical needs due to power outages,” he said. His favorite memory is helping an elderly woman after a house fire. “She was 80 years old and lived alone. She needed her dentures replaced… I was so thrilled to be able to call her and say, ‘hey we got the cost approved, make your appointment.”

Michael has loved his volunteer journey so far. “It’s such a great experience to surround myself with people who care about people who they have never met… Beyond helping people, it’s a great way to give yourself life experience, see different perspectives, and learn new skills,” he said. When he travels home, Michael spends time with his siblings, Virginia, Kevin, and Steven. He also works on a hot air balloon crew. Michael loves spending time with his hound mix, Mylie, and is a member of the EKU marching band. “I play trumpet. I’m going to be a section leader next season.”

The Red Cross Kentucky Region loves having such a rising star on their team! Thank you for all you do to help your community, Michael. We will be cheering you on in your college endeavors at EKU!

Learn more about volunteering with the Red Cross at redcross.org/volunteertoday

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Chris Schepers

Chris, right, and her husband, Joe.
Photos courtesy Chris Schepers.

For Chris Schepers, family ties lead her servant’s heart. “When somebody needs something, you help them out. It starts at home. It’s not always convenient to help, but you still make it work. It’s not a me it’s a “we”. We are all in this together,” said Chris. While her volunteer journey is new, Chris jumped right in to help during the eastern Kentucky floods. She and her husband, Joe, were staying in Jenny Wiley State Park on a vacation when the storms hit. She heard about the damage to the homes. “My heart went out to these people because your home is the base of your family,” said Chris.

Chris did some research and realized the Red Cross would be a great place to start volunteering. “As soon as I got home, I did trainings for about 2 weeks. Then I get a call and I was asked to deploy to Alaska.” Chris deployed to Alaska after Typhoon Merbok hit. She describes Alaska as an adventure. She deployed to help with sheltering and assisted with Damage Assessment of the homes in the impacted areas. She admired their community, saying “They are so resilient and self-supporting. They embody everything I teach my children. You stick together. They started shelters on their own and did potlucks. One was hurting so they all were hurting.”

Soon after, Chris got a call to deploy to Florida after Hurricane Ian made landfall. She was called on to help with Reunification, a process that seeks to reunite families and loved ones that got lost in the storm. Chris recalls one touching story of a woman she helped. The woman had moved homes and was concerned for her previous neighbor. They had lost contact for about two weeks. “We found the couple in Florida. We got [them] on the phone. And the two were able to talk to each other. Both broke down crying. It was nice to hear the two contact each other.”

Chris and Joe have been married for 35 years. They have 4 children: Andrea, Stacey, Allison, and Patrick. They live in Owensboro, Kentucky within a 5-minute drive of each other. The family is expecting their 9th grandchild and enjoy taking the whole family on camping trips. Chris and Joe have taken their camper to 40 states. Now that she’s retired, they want to plan more weekend trips and explore.

Chris appreciates the mission of the Red Cross and plans to recruit more friends of hers to volunteer. “I have met so many cool people with this adventure. There are multiple people I’m working with that are local, and my kids went to school with their kids. You just want to help other people when they are at their worst. It’s such a neat thing. I can’t talk about it enough.”

Thank you for answering the call and jumping in to help others, Chris! You make our Kentucky team stronger! You can learn more about volunteering with the Red Cross at redcross.org/volunteertoday

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Geno Rosario

You could call the Western Kentucky Red Cross chapter “small but mighty.” Geno Rosario sees it as a positive, saying “that’s the benefit of working with a smaller chapter. You learn to do a little bit of everything that’s needed.” Geno and his wife have been Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers for years, doing damage assessment in Iowa, Oregon, and Kentucky.

Geno, far left, working at an information and recruiting booth
with Western Kentucky volunteers

Geno began volunteering in 1998, teaching classes in CPR/First Aid and Preparedness, Health, and Safety Services (PHSS). Geno was a firefighter for 21 years and saw the initial stages of disasters. “As a firefighter, you get accustomed to seeing tragedy but it’s momentarily. You go in, put the fire out, and once you’re done you go to the station and wait for the next call. You don’t think of the aftermath.” In 2009, Geno volunteered with his first disaster after an ice storm hit Kentucky. He assisted with the shelter in Western Kentucky and decided to continue helping in disaster services.

“With Red Cross, I learn more about the other side. Dealing with people and the consequences. How they feel,” explained Geno. Geno began taking more courses and is now an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) driver and trainer. He helps with feeding, canteening, and distribution of medical supplies. Geno has deployed as a health services volunteer and supervisor for shelters. “I’m the first contact person for the ERV. I service the vehicles here. I do what’s needed for our chapter,” said Geno.

Geno is a part of the Latino Engagement team and provides a critical bond with those who speak Spanish. “You learn a lot working with different populations. Compassion. Confidentiality. It can be a challenge but if you like what you’re doing, it’s not really work,” said Geno.

Even on his off days, Geno is a key member of the Western Kentucky chapter. He has friends in the ambulance service who call his personal cell when a disaster hits. “They will call me and let me know if a fire or something big hits. They let me know if they need help. Getting water, food, providing services,” said Geno. As if his resume isn’t impressive enough, Geno is also a Blood Donor Ambassador for blood drives.

Geno’s love for volunteering coincides with the people he meets. “I get to make long term friendships with the other volunteers. You have the same sense of community and want to help,” reflected Geno. This Volunteer Appreciation Month, we want to say THANK YOU, Geno! Your work helps bring people together. Find out how to become a disaster volunteer by visiting RedCross.org

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Johnny Bell and St. Paul @ Shively

Johnny Bell, blood program leader

St. Paul Baptist Church at Shively Heights proudly has their slogan painted on the lobby wall. “Our slogan is caring and committed. One of the ways we can do that is hosting [a blood drive] here in the heart of Shively,” said Johnny Bell. Johnny is a blood program leader for the American Red Cross Kentucky Region. A retired military veteran, Johnny donates blood every 56 days at the downtown Louisville location. “One thing that motives me is that I have A- blood, and the majority of the time my blood goes to cancer patients or burn victims,” said Johnny.

Known around the community as St. Paul @ Shively, the church started hosting blood drives in June of 2021. After COVID-19 started, the church created a prayer call. Church members could call a 1-800 number for prayer requests. On one of these calls, Rosalind Thomas asked for prayers for her granddaughter, Niya, who was having a sickle cell crisis. After the church prayed for Rosalind’s family, the Pastor asked if the church could host a sickle cell blood drive.

Niya Thomas is a 20-year-old independent, bubbly, and upbeat young woman. “When she was growing up, you would never know she was sick. She liked to have fun and play with her friends,” said Rosalind. Niya is the only girl of 7 boys and graduated from Western High School in Louisville. She now lives in Baltimore with her aunt and works at GIANT foods.

“She just wants to manage her illness her way. She doesn’t want to use [her illness] as a crutch. She goes to Paul Mitchell hair school and her goal is to be a beautician,” said Rosalind. Niya has managed her sickle cell since she was a child. Rosalind described her pain and hospital stays as a “crisis.” “It’s very painful. A lot of the time [Niya] can’t even walk. It’s debilitating. She has pain in her elbows, shoulders, and limbs.”

Niya, center, with grandparents
 Rosalind and Mike

St. Paul @ Shively hosted their first blood drive in honor of Niya and have committed to hosting on a regular rotation. “Niya was so appreciative when they did the blood drive. She sent her thanks,” said Rosalind. One of the priorities for the American Red Cross Kentucky Region is to increase the number of African American or Black donors. Hosting a sickle cell blood drive is a great way to raise awareness.

“When you get a sickle cell transfusion, it’s better to get it from the ethnicity that you are,” said Johnny. When asked about the hesitation from the Black community to give blood due to history with the medical field, Rosalind expressed a sense of urgency. “I personally wish that Black people would give more. There is a great need,” said Rosalind. Historical tragedies like the Tuskegee experiment have kept African Americans or Black individuals from trusting the medical field.

Mike Thomas is Niya’s grandfather. He works at the airport and helps transport blood products on planes every day. “People would be surprised to see the full magnitude of what giving blood does,” said Mike. “I see blood getting shipped to different parts of the country daily. The Red Cross ships a lot of blood.” The Thomas family is grateful for St. Paul @ Shively’s commitment to hosting blood drives and they look forward to celebrating Niya’s 21st birthday in April.

Thank you to Johnny, Rosalind and Mike, and St. Paul @ Shively church. Together, we are helping sickle cell warriors. You can help by scheduling your appointment to donate blood! Head to Redcrossblood.org.

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Tiffany Dollinger

Tiffany Dollinger’s words to live by for disaster operations: “No expectations. The only thing you need to take into it is yourself and patience.” Volunteering for the Western Kentucky Red Cross chapter for a year and a half, Tiffany wasted no time jumping in. She has been a Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteer, shelter manager, and is working towards being qualified for driving an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV). Tiffany has been deployed on 4 operations within the past 13 months.

Tiffany, left, and her husband

Due to her health, Tiffany is unable to work, so the Red Cross means the world to her. “It’s everything. The Red Cross is all I do. Everybody has got to have something to do,” explained Tiffany. Tiffany was in the army for 10 years and her husband did 20 years. She has been to 17 countries and drove to 45 states. After her first deployment, Tiffany’s husband was inspired. He decided to become a DAT responder with her. The couple just celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary.

Tiffany loves to volunteer because of the sense of purpose it provides her with. “I hate when I watch a tragedy on the news. I want to help, but I feel powerless…On deployment, you see the best of humanity and the worst of times. Everyone is there because they want to be there. They all have the same drive and compassion,” said Tiffany. Tiffany explained she has Red Cross friends who gave up their Christmas to assist with the Kentucky tornadoes this past December. She was amazed by their generosity, saying, “You wouldn’t find that anywhere else.”

Tiffany has 2 sons and recently became an empty nester. Her 3 Dotson dogs provide her with plenty of love and entertainment while she’s at home. Tiffany and her husband are Nashville Predators season ticket holders, and they enjoy attending games together. “My husband is my biggest supporter. While I’m gone on a disaster operation for 2 weeks, I don’t have to worry about anything at home,” explained Tiffany.

We are so thankful for you, Tiffany! We appreciate your drive and passion to help others. You can become a disaster volunteer today! Check out our open volunteer positions at RedCross.org.

Volunteer Appreciation Week: Doyle Rambo

Open your ears. Be sympathetic, positive, and listen. This motto is one Doyle Rambo stands by graciously. Volunteering for the American Red Cross Bluegrass Area Chapter, Doyle is committed to giving back to his community. Doyle has been a Free Mason and Kosair Shriner for 50 years, he is the originator and curator of his local Shriner Museum, and volunteers at the local VA hospital in Lexington, KY. Doyle is also a musician, where he plays tuba in the “Young At Heart Big Band” and “My Dixieland South Band.” These bands play at nursing homes, festivals, and patriotic events. “Our project is to refurbish and supply instruments to school kids who are aspirant musicians,” explained Doyle.

Born and raised in Franklin County, KY, Doyle left home at the age of 19 to pursue his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Morehead State College. He served 4 years in the United States Marine Corps and discharged with the rank of Sergeant as an expert rifleman and an administrative clerk. Doyle met his wife in Washington, DC, and they have been happily married for 58 years. “I have two daughters, a paralegal and paramedic…4 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. All healthy and prosperous,” said Doyle.

In 2006 during Hurricane Katrina, Doyle answered the call for help and became a Red Cross volunteer. His primary role at the Red Cross is an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) maintainer and driver. Doyle has been an active volunteer for 16 years and has served on 19 national deployments. Making time to document his experiences, Doyle wrote a book on his journey during Hurricanes Gustav and Ike on the Texas Gulf Coast entitled “Ready, Set, Roll.”

During his time volunteering, Doyle has received many awards for his service. He received the “Ziggie Award” in 2007, the “Grateful Appreciation Award” in 2009, the “CEO Award” in 2009, and back-to-back “Outstanding Chapter Volunteer Award” in 2012 and 2013. Reflecting on his time volunteering, Doyle is thankful for his experiences, saying, “I have been blessed with good health, a reasonable financial means, and the ability to organize and lead.”

Helping others is second nature for Doyle, as he is also an active member of the Citizens Police Academy and an Elder and Worship leader at his church. “As a volunteer, it gives me the opportunity to help aid and assist those who have been affected by misfortune,” said Doyle. 

We have so many reasons to be thankful for you, Doyle! We appreciate your service and dedication to the American Red Cross mission. You can sign up to be an ERV driver and volunteer! Head to Redcross.org to learn more about our open volunteer opportunities. #VolunteerAppreciationMonth

Volunteer Appreciation Week: Glynis Bond

For Glynis Bond, volunteering is about putting a smile on someone’s face. “I enjoy working at Fort Knox. I see the smile on their faces when they know there is an avenue that can provide a substance when they are short,” said Glynis.

Glynis is retired from the army and volunteers at the food pantry and as a blood donor ambassador at Fort Knox. Originally from Chicago, IL, Glynis moved to Kentucky in 1998 as part of a military move. She has called Kentucky home ever since.

This past year, Glynis helped hand out food to families during the Thanksgiving holiday. “[The food pantry] is helping someone stay healthy and provide food. They have food at the table and the Red Cross has these avenues at no charge. It’s all free of charge because someone took the time to donate it,” said Glynis.

At blood drives, Glynis sees the positive effect it has on donors. “The power red donors (an automated process where the donor gives a concentrated amount of red blood cells) are fired up and ready. They are positive, want to do their donation, then set up their next appointment.” She enjoys seeing the donors and says they are “helping people live.”

Glynis was a Sergeant First Class Human Resource Supervisor in the army. She knew she wanted to volunteer with the Red Cross because of the ongoing need. Glynis is a member of Kappa Epsilon Psi Military Sorority, Inc.

Glynis loves to travel and celebrated her wedding anniversary in Hawaii. Her favorite place to visit so far has been Aruba. She has been married for 35 years and is excited to resume traveling once COVID-19 has subsided.

Thank you, Glynis, for your service to our nation and the Red Cross Kentucky Region! You are making a difference and helping community members who need it. Learn about our local volunteer opportunities by visiting RedCross.org #VolunteerAppreciationMonth

Volunteer Appreciation Week: Tanya Garitty

There’s something to be said about a volunteer who has made an impact in 4 different states. Tanya Garitty makes sure people know she’s there to provide comfort. Tanya has been a part of 4 different regions for the American Red Cross: Louisiana, Florida, Mississippi, and Kentucky.

A few minutes before midnight on July 4th, 1990, Tanya’s neighbor in New Orleans set their house on fire for insurance fraud. The fire spread to Tanya’s and 3 other homes. Tanya had just given birth to her third child and was on her way home. Tanya’s best friend was at her home watching her 2-year-old and 1-year-old. Her friend ran through the flames with the young kids to save them. “As she reached the back door, the room my son was sleeping in was engulfed in flames. Just a few more seconds and all three of them would have died,” said Tanya.

Tanya was amazed by how the Red Cross helped her. “I couldn’t produce milk for my baby because I was in shock. The Red Cross got me a bottle sterilizer… They got my kids toys. I had nothing, and they kept in touch with me.” When Tanya found a new home, the Red Cross got her a U-Haul to help with the move. After that, she was all in. She knew she wanted to volunteer with us.

Tanya is now a jack of all trades. She is a mass care shelter manager for disaster services, a CPR/First Aid trainer, a duty officer, and the Blood Donor Ambassador Lead for Shelby County, KY. Even though she is busy, she loves connecting with people. It’s her calling. “It’s about spending time with somebody who just needs the arm around them. You want to cry? We’re here. People need to be told they are beautiful and loved… Not just when a disaster is going on,” said Tanya. She has been wrapping her arms around folks for 31 years, and she’s nowhere near done.

When reflecting on a favorite memory, Tanya remembered a man she helped during Hurricane Michael. The man was on his way to the shelter. He lost his house and had his dog with him. On the way to the shelter, he was T-boned by another car. His dog ran off and the man was taken to the hospital. “He gets out of the hospital and only has his hospital gown and slippers. He comes to the shelter, and I say ‘let me get you some clothes’ and he said ‘I don’t care about clothes. I just want my dog,” reflected Tanya.

Tanya knew in her heart she had to find the dog. The man was barely eating. “I had a day off from volunteering because it was my birthday. I didn’t take off. I used my personal phone to call shelters 100s of miles away,” said Tanya. "I got a call from a police officer, and she walks in the shelter with the dog. The man went to his knees on the floor and started crying uncontrollably. “He said ‘can I keep my dog here at the shelter?’ I said ‘you cannot, but the Humane Society has a shelter for him. Go spend as much time as you want with him outside.' He would sit with the dog in the rain and sun for hours. He just wanted his dog,” commented Tanya.

That story is one of many ways that Tanya has gone above and beyond in her volunteer work. She explained when you go through a disaster, the pain is unbearable. It probably won’t ease within 1 day or even a week. But 1 year later, it will hurt a little less. “I always say, you can use this as your story. You can help other people. Volunteer with us and be that arm around their shoulder,” said Tanya.

Tanya is a biomedical specialist and went to medical school. She loves to bowl and play card and board games. She is very passionate about her church and ministry. Tanya has 4 kids and 6 grandchildren. “I take pride when I see an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) going by in a disaster zone. It’s important. Knowing you can provide some type of comfort,” said Tanya.

We are inspired by your perseverance, Tanya! Kentucky is grateful to have you as a leader and volunteer. We know you will continue to be that smiling face to those in need. You can be a disaster volunteer, too! Visit redcross.org to check out our open opportunities. #VolunteerAppreciationMonth

Volunteer Appreciation Week: Carol and Randy Griggs

 “People need to step back from the busyness of life. The busyness is not essential, and they get caught up.” Carol Griggs explained why it is important for people to volunteer. “This is a way to help someone who needs blood. We speak to families who have needed blood and they truly appreciate it.”

Carol and Randy Griggs are a husband-and-wife blood donor ambassador team for the American Red Cross Kentucky Region. Starting in 2019, they continued their volunteer efforts through the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s a benefit to us because we are out conversing with people and enjoying meeting with them,” said Randy.

Carol and Randy will be married for 54 years this October. The Red Cross Kentucky Region has given them a place to volunteer and give back. “We enjoy the [Red Cross] workers. They are friendly and so appreciative,” said Carol.

In their free time, Carol and Randy enjoy going to church at Southeast Christian. Randy explained that the couple is living in their dream house and loves their family. They have a son and daughter and 5 grandsons.

When asked about why she enjoys volunteering, Carol said “The end result is that blood is going to someone who desperately needs it… This is one way we can repay.”

Thank you to Carol and Randy for your time and effort as blood donor ambassadors! This #VolunteerAppreciationMonth, we will be highlighting some of our amazing volunteers. To find more information about volunteering, visit RedCross.org

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.

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Jeff Backus

Jeff Backus is a passionate Tennessee Volunteers sports fan who has been married to his wife for 9 years. He loves gardening and singing in his church choir at St. Agnes. Jeff is a volunteer for the American Red Cross Kentucky Region as a Blood Donor Ambassador. He began his volunteering in the spring of 2020.

Originally from east Tennessee, Jeff has been in Louisville for 12 years. Unfortunately, Jeff knows firsthand about the need for blood because he is a two-time cardiac arrest survivor. “I was walking near Cherokee Park on both cardiac arrests. Both times, bystanders came and gave me CPR,” explained Jeff. “I am someone who needed blood. I had to have a double bypass surgery after the first cardiac arrest… I received about 4 units of blood.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jeff was looking for volunteer work. However, there weren’t many organizations needing volunteers due to the shutdowns. Thankfully, Jeff reached out to the American Red Cross Kentucky Region about volunteer opportunities. He now attends 3-4 blood drives per week and runs the registration table. “The best thing is meeting people. Getting to know the [Red Cross] staff. I have a great relationship with just about all of them,” said Jeff.

Before his cardiac arrests, Jeff was a regular blood donor. He remembers giving his first donation in 1978. After moving to Louisville, he gave platelets on a regular basis. “Giving platelets takes longer but I loved doing it. In the fall or winter, I’d plan my donation on days where there were football or basketball games. I’d sit there and watch them during my donation,” said Jeff.

While sharing his story, Jeff was preparing for his weekend to be recognized as a cardiac arrest survivor. He was taking his wife to the event. Jeff and his wife will be celebrating 10 years of marriage in June, and they plan on taking a trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, in the Smokies. “We spent our honeymoon there, so we are going back! I’m pretty sure we are staying in the same place as well,” explained Jeff. Dollywood is one of Jeff’s favorite places and said it’s everything it’s cracked up to be!

Jeff commented on the importance of having a healthy blood supply, saying “I just can’t imagine in an emergency. A wreck or accident. You show up and they could be like: ‘there’s nothing we can do. We don’t have your blood type.” Jeff went on to say that it’s not just about blood, it’s the 3 components that are important too. A single donation can be separated into platelets, plasma, and red blood cells for patients in need.

This month, we are celebrating and recognizing our amazing volunteers! Thank you, Jeff, for being a volunteer. Your story is inspiring, and you help so many people through your work. You can find out how to become a Red Cross volunteer by going to RedCross.org #VolunteerAppreciationMonth

Volunteer Appreciation Week: Alvin Barnes

As part of Volunteer Appreciation Week, we’re highlighting some of the volunteers who work behind the scenes every day to help support the mission of the American Red Cross!

Alvin Barnes is a Fort Knox Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) volunteer who moved to the Radcliff, KY area from Chicago. He decided to volunteer because he wanted to do something different after working in truck driving.

 “I found my peace in helping others,” said Alvin. Now when he volunteers as a SAF Emergency Communication Caseworker, every day is a unique experience. As part of his volunteering, Alvin is responsible for following up on requests for assistance and researching aid agencies.

 

One of the most interesting parts of his job as a volunteer is getting to see how interconnected people really are in the world. “We have no clue about how connected we are until we are knee deep in it,” said Alvin.

 

For Alvin, volunteering means paying it forward, and he believes it’s important for others to volunteer as well. “We all must participate in plausible solutions or nothing gets done. True sacrifice is doing benevolence at your level and opportunity.”

 

When he’s not volunteering, Alvin enjoys reading, research and educating himself about topics that interest him.

Our Red Cross volunteers are community heroes who give their time to help others. Join their ranks and be part of our lifesaving work! Visit redcross.org/volunteer to find an opportunity near you.

Volunteer Appreciation Week: Kaitlyn Harmon

Kaitlyn Harmon is a Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) volunteer from Fort Knox, KY. She works as a SAF Emergency Communication Caseworker, and has been volunteering since September of 2020.

For Kaitlyn, the most interesting part of her job as a volunteer is being able to communicate with military families, especially if they are new to the military. She enjoys helping them understand the services the American Red Cross provides to military families, and providing relief about how to contact their service member if they have an emergency at home.

The most memorable thing she has experienced with the Red Cross was when she first started out volunteering. “All the other volunteers welcomed me and made me feel at home. Volunteering didn't feel like a job, it felt like we were a family.”

Our Red Cross volunteers are community heroes who give their time to help others. Join their ranks and be part of our lifesaving work! Visit redcross.org/volunteer to find an opportunity near you.

Volunteer Appreciation Week: Susan Carter

As part of Volunteer Appreciation Week, we’re highlighting some of the volunteers who work behind the scenes every day to help support the mission of the American Red Cross!

Susan is a Louisville Area Chapter disaster volunteer from Carroll County. Her introduction to the Red Cross came in 2015, after a tornado touched down in Jefferson County, IN where she worked.

“The local county executive was a woman I had worked with before and I wanted to help,” said Susan. “So I volunteered and started to train.”

Now as a Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteer, Susan has most recently been responding virtually to home fires. Last November she also deployed for the first time to a national disaster response in New Orleans where she assisted with damage assessment.

For Susan, the most interesting part of volunteering is getting to talk to the people she assists.

“People are so different and yet so much the same,” said Susan. “I think the different ways people respond to fires and the upheaval and loss they experience would surprise most people.”

Susan believes it’s important for others to volunteer to help continue to carry the mission of the Red Cross forward.

Our Red Cross volunteers are community heroes who give their time to help others. Join their ranks and be part of our lifesaving work! Visit redcross.org/volunteer to find an opportunity near you.

National Volunteer Week: Eastern Kentucky Chapter

As we come to the end of National Volunteer Week, we want to again express our gratitude to all of the volunteers from across our region who make our mission possible every day. Thank you all for your hard word and dedication! We hope these words have inspired you as you have inspired us!
 
Today we bring to you from the Eastern Kentucky Chapter:

BOBBY SULLIVAN, Pikeville. “I see hope shine through in the toughest of times. American Red Cross should be in every community.”

Bobby (right) with Debbie Ranier,
Executive Director of our Eastern Kentucky Chapter

Bobby certainly has been that ray of hope, as in the short time he’s been with the Red Cross he has been nothing short of amazing. Since March of 2018, Bobby has been a disaster team member, a member of the Regional Volunteer Steering Committee, and the Disability Integration Program Coordinator for the Eastern KY Chapter, as well as the Disability Integration Program Lead for the Region.


PAUL HELO, Ashland. “Susan and I joined the Red Cross to make a difference in people’s lives who are going through the worst times of their lives. This also applies to my Mental Health work, especially with those who have suffered the loss of loved ones, including animals. God has blessed us and we feel a responsibility to give back. Joy shared is doubled and sorrow shared is divided.”

Paul has spread his talents regionally, acting as the Disaster Mental Health Program Regional Lead as well as taking the Services to Armed Forces (SAF) Reconnection Workshop regionally. He has also fulfilled several roles on a local basis, including installing smoke alarms as a Home Fire Campaign member, teaching for the Pillowcase Project in area schools, and acting as a SAF Volunteer Partner.


LYNETTE ALLEN, Ashland. “This is the way I can help and serve those who need it most. I’ve fallen more and more in love with the Red Cross mission and its positive impact on others.”

As a Blood Donor Ambassador, Lynette has worked the majority of blood drives in the Ashland area since 2017. Her dedication to making sure patients in the hospital have lifesaving blood is inspiring. While working at the drives, she makes sure the donors feel welcome and the donors actually ask for her by name. Thank you, Lynette, for your extraordinary volunteer work with the Red Cross!

Our Red Cross volunteers are community heroes who give their time to help others. Join their ranks and be part of our lifesaving work! Visit redcross.org/volunteer to find an opportunity near you.

National Volunteer Week: Western Kentucky Chapter

During this National Volunteer Appreciation Week, we have been delivering some inspiration from volunteers across the Kentucky Region. Today, we bring to you from the Western Kentucky Chapter:

EVONNE HARL, Owensboro. "Red Cross means a lot to me in my life. I really enjoy getting to know people and helping those in need."

Evonne Harl (left) pictured with volunteer Brenda Doom-Sauvage

Evonne is a longtime Red Cross volunteer, having joined the Western KY Chapter in 2000. She is a full-time volunteer at the chapter in Owensboro, serving as an Administrative Assistant. Evonne is also the first one to raise her hand for meetings, classes and special events!


EUGENIO “GENO” ROSARIO, West Paducah. “I volunteer with the American Red Cross because I enjoy being with people and building lasting relationships. Oftentimes they become like lifelong family members. I love to see volunteers coming from all over the country working together with the same mind set: 'Helping our communities in distress'.” 

Geno has been a long time Red Crosser, starting as a CPR/AED/First Aid instructor while working as a firefighter, then joining our disaster team in 2012. He has deployed on many disaster responses and locally serves disaster action team member, instructor, and Emergency Management Agency Team member. He also assists with transporting blood products to area hospitals as a Blood Services McCracken County Transportation Specialist.


ALICE DAY ROSARIO, West Paducah. “Being a nurse with the Red Cross is what I’ve dreamed of doing since I was a child. When I saw the need, it fired my passion and I’ve never looked back.”

Another valued Western Kentucky volunteer, Alice wears several “hats” with the Red Cross, like her husband Geno! She holds the position of "Blood Services McCracken County Transportation Specialist – Navigator", ensuring that the area’s blood supply is moved efficiently to hospitals. She is also a disaster team member and has just joined the Disaster Mental Health team.

Our Red Cross volunteers are community heroes who give their time to help others. Join their ranks and be part of our lifesaving work! Visit redcross.org/volunteer to find an opportunity near you.