Honoring Red Cross Month

March is Red Cross month! We asked Jill Jameson, SPHR, SHRM-SCP , the Board of Directors Chair for?the Central Maryland Chapter of the Red Cross of the National Capital and Greater Chesapeake Region?if she could share some insight about this important month and cause. Read her insight below!?

What is Red Cross Month?

The American Red Cross, founded in 1863 by Henry Dunant, plays a crucial role in providing humanitarian aid and relief across the nation and around the world. The tradition of observing Red Cross Month began in 1943, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first Red Cross Month proclamation. Since then, every U.S. president has designated March as Red Cross Month. Volunteers represent more than 90% of the Red Cross workforce. So, during Red Cross Month, we celebrate the volunteers, blood donors, people trained in lifesaving skills, and our supporters—those who step up to aid others when #helpcantwait. These are the people who contribute to the lifesaving mission of the American Red Cross: to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.

Additionally, March 27 marks the 10th annual Red Cross Giving Day. Giving Day is an opportunity for local communities to come together on one day to help families who have been impacted by a home fire or other disaster and who urgently need Red Cross services to get back on their feet. Imagine your life being turned upside down by a disaster. One minute you’re relaxing with your family; the next, you’re fleeing your home. This happens every eight minutes to families across the country.

How does JMT contribute to the American Red Cross Organization?

JMT has a long-standing relationship with the American Red Cross here in Maryland. I currently serve as the board chair for the Central Maryland Chapter of the National Capital and Greater Chesapeake Region. Previously, Rick Smulovitz and Fred Mirmiran each served on the board for a period of time. JMT continues to support the Red Cross, both through volunteerism and financial support. As unfortunate as the circumstances may be, our employees always seem to stand up when a natural disaster hits, raising funds—which are matched by JMT—to support the Red Cross’ disaster relief efforts. JMT also utilizes the services of the Red Cross to provide CPR training at several of our offices, and we volunteer our larger facilities to host Red Cross blood drives multiple times a year.

How can others get involved?

Join me in serving the Red Cross mission by volunteering, giving blood, learning lifesaving skills, or making a financial donation. You don’t have to wait until next March to help people in need. Choose one or more of the options below and join us today!

·?????? See where you can volunteer locally: Where can I volunteer?

·?????? Find a local blood drive: Where can I donate blood?

·?????? Want to make a donation? Donate here!

·?????? Where can I learn a lifesaving skill? Find a class near you.