Red Cross board members work tirelessly during the year to support Oxford and the Orange County community, planning blood drives, clothing donations , and service events. This month, read about how five Red Cross seniors have been shaped by their experiences in the club!
Alyssa Uy, President — What kept you going back to the club since middle school?
“I think Red Cross [is] definitely a community. I found [that] a lot of my friendships have grown here, like Tam-Ai. She was one of my first friends at Oxford back in eighth grade. Seeing how we’ve come so far and all the things we’ve accomplished, that was really fun — [from] little eighth graders in the club online to seniors now.”
Tam-Ai Van, Vice President — What would you say to students interested in joining?
“I think [Red Cross] is a really good opportunity while you’re young to get involved with your school and community to make an impact on those around you. A lot of the things that we do as a club, I really feel like we really put ourselves out there and try to do our best to make an impact.”
Daniel Georges, Service Coordinator — What has been your experience in Red Cross?
“I’m currently serving as part of the club’s outreach committee of [OC] Red Cross youth, and it’s definitely exceeded my expectations regarding the impact I anticipated [on] creating. As a zone leader, I help guide schools across the county in fulfilling the Red Cross mission, strengthening member engagement. It’s been really great to meet so many other dedicated volunteers.”
Helen Vu, Service Coordinator — What has been your favorite Red Cross memory?
“I honestly really liked volunteering at the blood drives in junior year, sophomore year, freshman year, and now planning the blood drives as a senior. I think it’s a tradition as a club to just plan blood drives, and it brings the community together.”
Emily Chung, Publicity — What will you miss most about Red Cross when you graduate?
“I really liked the bonding events, like ice skating events and even the potluck for Thanksgiving. We really got to get closer to the general members, and it was fun to connect outside of Red Cross. [It’s] genuinely like a family [where] you can join a community and improve your school and social life. You can find so many new friends in this club [who] are interested in helping others.”
As Red Cross begins planning its March blood drive, consider volunteering or donating to make an impact on those in need and get involved! Meetings are on Tuesdays in the MPR. To hear more from these seniors, check out The Unicorn podcast.
