By Kathleen Maclay, Red Cross volunteer
On his final day of work in his 39-year career, Jim Camarillo of Menlo Park rose early to join other volunteers at the American Red Cross shelter at the Twin Pines Casino in Middletown, where nearly 100 men, women and children had taken refuge the night before from the ravages of the Mendocino Complex fire. Read more
By Susanne Lafaver, Red Cross volunteer
Many first-time Lake County fire evacuees sought shelter at the American Red Cross shelter at Middletown High School during the Mendocino Complex Fire.
“We didn’t know what to expect,” said Daniel Waggoner of Lakeport. “We felt welcomed right away. The Red Cross really cared about my wife and me, and didn’t leave us until they were we each had a cot, blanket, toiletries, water, snacks, and everything we needed.” Read more
By Susanne LaFaver, Red Cross volunteer
Some of Lake County’s most ardent Red Cross volunteers are among the region’s residents most familiar with its disaster threats and those ready to lend a hand to others. Read more
By Kathleen Maclay, Red Cross volunteer
With hundreds seeking Red Cross help as Northern California wildfires have forced residents to evacuate, the American Red Cross is offering a one-stop Volunteer Intake Center (VIC) in the Lake County community of Middletown from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Saturday, August 4. Maybe longer. Read more
When Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, George Dresnek explored ways to help and found himself in an American Red Cross call center in Oakland. He now regularly deploys for the Red Cross as a facilities expert to 6 to 7 disaster responses a year, volunteer work that can take him away for up to 28 days at a time. Acknowledging the incredible sacrifices he makes on behalf of those in need, George readily credits his wife for this generosity. “I retired in 2012,” he smirks, describing his ongoing availability for service. “But she was the one who told me to ‘get a hobby.’” Read more
SANTA ROSA (July 19, 2018) — The American Red Cross of the California Northwest honored 17 volunteers from Sonoma, Napa, Lake and Mendocino counties at annual Volunteer Recognition Dinners in May and June. Read more
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