American Red Cross

The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Children are particularly vulnerable in emergencies, and disasters are especially frightening for them due to limited life experience and cognitive ability. To help children build the skills and confidence they may need in an emergency, the American Red Cross Youth Preparedness Programs offers in-person and virtual courses and interactive tools that empower them to prevent, prepare for and cope with crises big and small.

The Pillowcase Project provides children in grades 3-5 with information and tools to better handle home fires and region-specific emergencies, enabling them to take more responsibility over their own preparedness. The Pillowcase Project provides information, skills, and tools for students to help their families create an emergency communications plan, emergency contact cards, home fire escape plan and household emergency supplies kit.

Prepare with Pedro will encourage students in grades K-2 to build muscle memory for emergency activities and to develop basic coping skills using storytelling and hands-on activities. Participants receive a take-home storybook, which includes a safety checklist and allows families to learn and repeat preparedness actions together.

Contact: Robin Sweeney - Robin.Sweeney@RedCross.org

The Red Cross Leadership Development Camp (LDC) is a 4-day, 3-night leadership conference for youth in grades 9-12. Last year, the camp was held in Idyllwild, CA and the location for this year’s camp is yet to be disclosed. Funds are utilized to help students afford the cost of registration, which provides food, lodging, and transportation. The remaining funds will be used to purchase supplies such as t-shirts and educational materials for the students.

The American Red Cross is committed to training and empowering youth in our community. Over the course of the Leadership Camp, high school students build confidence and cultivate core leadership skills such as teamwork, public speaking, and diversity/cultural understanding. These are skills that can later be applied on school campuses as young adults, and throughout life. Throughout the week, American Red Cross youth volunteers and staff members create sessions and activities that reinforce individual and team leadership skills. Over 80 youth come back from camp each year as stronger individuals, and attendees form friendships that last a lifetime. Moreover, they become leaders who make a difference in their schools and community.