American Red Cross Southern California Region

06/14/2026

“Through the Red Cross, I didn’t just find a way to help others, I found my voice, my confidence, and my purpose. And this is only the beginning.”

From a shy middle schooler to a confident leader, Helen Afshar’s journey shows how one small step can spark real change.

Inspired early on by Clara Barton, Helen reconnected with the Red Cross in high school during a time when she was searching for connections. What began as joining a club quickly turned into a leadership role, growing membership from 10 to more than 120 students, organizing donation drives, and contributing over 100 volunteer hours to her community.

Her story is a powerful reminder that volunteering doesn’t just impact others—it can transform your own life, too.

Read more stories from Red Cross Youth Voices: https://rdcrss.org/4xueVq9

06/12/2026

Did you know? Sixty years ago, the Red Cross created Disaster Action Teams (DAT) to help people after disasters by providing relief on an on-call basis. Specially trained DAT volunteers respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to deliver immediate relief, emotional support and long-term recovery resources to community members after emergencies. Their mission is simple and powerful: to make sure that families never face disasters alone.

Many DAT calls are single-family and multi-family home fires, flooding and other local emergencies that have displaced individuals and families. During these responses, DAT teams can provide emotional support and resources such as free blankets, comfort items, food, temporary shelter assistance, recovery information and more.

One local DAT volunteer is Susie Johnson, who for more than 30 years has served in the Red Cross Orange County Chapter. She credits her grandmother for instilling the value of service in her and her brothers from a very young age. We’re grateful to Susie for her many years of dedication! Learn more about Susie’s incredible story here https://rdcrss.org/4uuj5LY.

Thank you to Susie and all of our DAT volunteers who go above and beyond each day to be there for local families in need!

06/12/2026

Make a lifesaving assist this season! Come to give blood or platelets June 1-28 and get a $15 e-gift card to the merchant of your choice + automatic entry for a chance to score one of two $7.5K gift cards. Book now: https://rcblood.org/3NDDsao (T&C; other entry)

06/11/2026

06/10/2026

San Diego and Imperial Counties are full of everyday heroes — and now it’s time to recognize them!

Do you know someone who has shown extraordinary courage, compassion or selflessness? Help us shine a light on their impact by nominating them to be recognized at our 24th Annual Real Heroes Awards! Nominations are free and open now through Friday, July 24.

Learn more and submit your nomination today at redcross.org/sandiego/realheroes!

06/10/2026

Honoring Courage in Action at Naval Base Coronado

We recently had the privilege of visiting Naval Base Coronado to recognize Military Police Officers Connor Schultz and Ulises Garcia with the American Red Cross Certificate of Merit.

The Certificate of Merit is one of the Red Cross’s highest honors—awarded to individuals who use skills learned through American Red Cross Training Services to help save a life.

When Officers Schultz and Garcia noticed a patrol unit that had collided head-on with a fixed object, they didn’t hesitate. Discovering the civilian police officer behind the wheel was experiencing a seizure, they quickly secured the vehicle and immediately administered first aid. They remained by the individual’s side, providing critical care until emergency medical personnel arrived.

Their swift thinking, decisive action, and unwavering commitment made all the difference. Their bravery and selflessness exemplify the very best of what it means to serve and protect.

Please join us in recognizing Officers Schultz and Garcia for their heroic actions and dedication to saving lives. 🎉

06/09/2026

Recently, our Service to the Armed Forces volunteers delivered four carloads of donations from our community to the Tierney Center for Veteran Services to be used by veterans in need.

Our volunteers donated their time, strength and personal vehicles to transport the donations. Thank you to our volunteers, and also to our incredible partners at the Tierney Center for accepting these donations and distributing them to the veteran community it serves. Great work, team! 👏

06/09/2026

This is your monthly reminder to test your smoke alarms!🚨👈

06/08/2026

Wildfires can spread quickly so it's crucial to be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice and leave if you are told to do so. Make sure to:
- Fill up your gas tank
- Park your car in the direction of your evacuation route
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
In San Diego County, follow for the latest updates for the

Red Cross volunteers are onsite at the Temporary Evacuation Point at SDPD Northern Division parking lot located at 4275 Eastgate Mall, La Jolla CA 92037.

06/05/2026

Local Tiffany Circle members recently gathered at our Orange County Chapter for a meaningful evening of service. The program opened with remarks from Tiffany Circle member and San Diego Chapter board member Paula Downey, followed by a thoughtful look at the origins of the Red Cross from Tiffany Circle member Nora Grabar. Becky Firey, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Orange County, shared how the Red Cross legacy continues through the impactful work happening locally today.

Angie Fie, Senior Regional Program Specialist, spoke about the Service to the Armed Forces mission, sharing powerful experiences that highlighted the urgent needs within our military and veteran community.

Together, the group assembled 132 comfort and hygiene kits that will be distributed to unhoused veterans. It was a special evening of learning, connection and hands-on service — a reminder of the incredible power of women coming together to support the Red Cross mission. ️

Check out photos from the event on our Flickr: https://rdcrss.org/4dzNTG9