About Us

The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. It does this through services that are governed and directed by volunteers and are consistent with its Congressional Charter and the principles of the International Red Cross. Since 1916, the Douglas County Chapter is a local arm of this world wide organization meeting the emergency health needs of the communities of Lawrence, Eudora, Baldwin City, and Lecompton.

Families and individuals – our friends, neighbors, co-workers and family members, can be stunned and shaken by the devastating blur of sudden disasters. As the home and belongings that represent years of love and labor are lost in the blink of an eye. Fires, winter storms, tornadoes and floods are events which can turn a household upside down and leave nothing in its wake — nothing, except for the American Red Cross. Victims of these disasters can turn immediately to the Red Cross for meals, clothing and a place to stay. In the weeks ahead, they will continue to receive support and assistance to rebuild their home and they will find hope. They will find support from the organization which has turned your care and concern into immediate action.

In addition to meeting the emergency needs of disaster victims, the nations largest humanitarian organization has programs to ensure an adequate and safe blood supply as well as teach communities important lifesaving skills such as CPR and First Aid. Another critical responsibility of the Red Cross is to provide the emergency communications link during times of death, birth and serious illness between families and the men and women in the Armed Forces.

Our helping hands also extend beyond our community and nation. Everyday we hear about trouble around the world. The American Red Cross is there, too. In conjunction with the International Committee of the Red Cross we provide the technical and financial support to countries all around the world, following the principles of the International Red Cross. These principles include humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality.

All this responsibility doesn't come cheaply. The Red Cross is not a government agency and is not funded by the government. We are an active partner with the United Way and depend on the generous donations of time, money, and blood from the American people. Whether at home or across the globe, the 1.2 million paid and volunteer staff members serving in some 2700 chapters and military stations across the world and our financial supporters understand that...