American Red Cross

The International Red Cross was founded in Switzerland in 1863 to bring non-discriminatory assistance to wounded soldiers on battlefields. After learning about the movement, patent-clerk-turned-nurse Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross (ARC) in 1881 on the fundamental principles of humanity, neutrality, and unity — and she introduced a new form of volunteer service to the country. One hundred forty years later, the ARC now has an expansive network of donors, volunteers, and employees across the country and stands as one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the world.

With its network of 600 locally supported chapters, the American Red Cross responds to more than 70,000 disasters across the country every year and provides emergency assistance, disaster relief, blood services, and lifesaving training. In addition to emergency services, the ARC provides a vital need to all hospitals by regularly hosting blood drives across the country.