How To Join The American Red Cross A Step By Step Guide To Volunteering And Employment Opportunities

The American Red Cross is one of the most trusted humanitarian organizations in the United States, providing disaster relief, blood donation services, health and safety training, and support to military families. Whether you're passionate about emergency response, skilled in logistics, or simply want to give back, there are meaningful ways to get involved. This guide walks you through the process of joining as a volunteer or employee, outlines key opportunities, and shares actionable steps to help you contribute effectively.

Understanding Your Role: Volunteer vs. Employee

The American Red Cross operates on a hybrid model—relying heavily on trained volunteers while also employing professionals across various fields. Understanding the difference between these roles helps determine which path aligns with your goals.

• Volunteers donate their time and skills without pay. They make up over 90% of the organization’s workforce during disasters and support functions year-round.
• Employees are paid staff who manage operations, logistics, medical services, administration, and leadership roles. These positions often require formal qualifications and experience.

Both paths demand commitment, background checks, and training, but the entry processes differ significantly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Volunteer

1. Visit the official website: Go to redcross.org and navigate to the “Get Involved” section.
2. Select “Volunteer”: Choose from options like Disaster Response, Blood Services, Service to the Armed Forces, or Health & Safety Training.
3. Create a profile: Register using your email and provide basic personal information.
4. Search for local opportunities: Use the opportunity finder tool to locate roles near your zip code.
5. Apply to specific positions: Submit your application, including availability, relevant skills, and any certifications (e.g., CPR, first aid).
6. Complete required training: Enroll in online courses such as Introduction to the American Red Cross, Shelter Operations, or First Aid Basics.
7. Pass a background check: All applicants must undergo a criminal history screening.
8. Attend an orientation: Many roles require in-person or virtual onboarding sessions.
9. Begin serving: Once approved, you’ll be activated based on need and availability.

Tip: Apply early—even if no openings appear nearby. Roles open frequently, especially before hurricane season or during public health emergencies.

Top Volunteer Opportunities and Requirements

Not all volunteer roles are created equal. Some require specialized skills, while others welcome beginners. Below is a comparison of common positions:

Role	Time Commitment	Key Responsibilities	Requirements
Disaster Relief Worker	On-call, typically 4–12 hrs per shift	Provide shelter, food, emotional support after disasters	CPR certified, pass background check, complete training
Blood Donor Ambassador	Flexible, 3–5 hrs/week	Support donors at blood drives, manage registration	Customer service skills, reliable transportation
Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) Volunteer	Regular shifts, ~4 hrs/week	Assist military families with emergency communications	Fingerprinting, security clearance, empathy
Health & Safety Instructor	As scheduled, varies	Teach CPR, babysitting, water safety courses	Valid instructor certification, teaching experience preferred
Administrative Support	Part-time, office hours	Data entry, phone support, event coordination	Basic computer skills, attention to detail

Real Example: Maria’s Path to Disaster Response

Maria, a retired nurse from Florida, wanted to stay active and help her community. She visited redcross.org and applied to become a Disaster Health Services volunteer. After completing six hours of online training and passing her background check, she was assigned to a local shelter team. When Hurricane Ian hit, Maria was deployed within 48 hours. She provided basic medical screenings, managed medications, and comforted displaced families. “I didn’t expect to feel so useful again,” she said. “This isn’t just volunteering—it’s purpose.”

“Every volunteer brings unique strengths. Whether you’re handing out meals or managing logistics, you’re part of a life-saving mission.” — Dr. Gail McGovern, President & CEO, American Red Cross

Pursuing Employment with the American Red Cross

If you're seeking a career in humanitarian work, public health, or emergency management, the American Red Cross offers full-time, part-time, and contract positions nationwide. Unlike volunteering, employment requires a formal job application, interviews, and often advanced credentials.

How to Find and Apply for Jobs

1. Go to the Careers page: Visit redcross.org/jobs.
2. Use filters: Search by location, department (e.g., Biomedical, Disaster Cycle Services), or job type.
3. Review job descriptions: Pay close attention to required education, certifications, and experience.
4. Upload your resume and cover letter: Tailor them to highlight relevant skills—leadership, crisis management, healthcare, or logistics.
5. Track your application: You’ll receive email updates through the applicant portal.
6. Prepare for interviews: Expect behavioral questions focused on teamwork, adaptability, and ethical decision-making.

Common employment areas include:

• Blood Services (lab technicians, phlebotomists, donor recruiters)
• Disaster Program Management
• Finance, HR, and IT Support
• Public Affairs and Communications
• Nursing and Mental Health Professionals

Tip: Even if you start as a volunteer, consistent performance can lead to job referrals. Many employees began in unpaid roles.

Checklist: How to Successfully Join the American Red Cross

Follow this concise checklist to ensure you don’t miss critical steps:

• ✅ Determine whether you want to volunteer or seek employment
• ✅ Visit redcross.org and create a user account
• ✅ Complete the volunteer application or submit a job resume
• ✅ Review available roles in your area
• ✅ Enroll in required training modules (volunteers)
• ✅ Pass background and reference checks
• ✅ Attend orientation or interview
• ✅ Stay responsive to communications and activation calls
• ✅ Begin contributing—whether at a blood drive, disaster site, or office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I volunteer if I have no prior experience?

Absolutely. The American Red Cross provides free training for most entry-level roles. Administrative support, client casework assistants, and blood donor hosts often welcome beginners. A willingness to learn and serve is the most important qualification.

Are remote volunteering opportunities available?

Yes. Virtual roles include telehealth nursing, virtual casework for disaster survivors, data entry, and social media support. These positions are ideal for those with internet access and a quiet workspace.

Do employees receive benefits?

Full-time employees typically receive health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Part-time and temporary roles may offer limited benefits depending on the position and location.

Final Steps and Ongoing Involvement

Once you’ve joined, your journey doesn’t end. The Red Cross encourages continuous learning and advancement. Volunteers can pursue advanced certifications, lead teams, or specialize in areas like mental health response or emergency preparedness education. Employees often transition between departments, gaining diverse experience in humanitarian operations.

Staying engaged means responding promptly to deployment alerts, renewing certifications on time, and participating in refresher trainings. The organization also hosts annual recognition events and leadership summits to honor contributions and foster community.

“The need for compassionate, capable people has never been greater. Climate disasters, health crises, and military family needs keep growing—and so does our reliance on dedicated individuals.” — Clara Barton Legacy Society, American Red Cross

Take Action Today

Joining the American Red Cross isn’t just about filling a role—it’s about becoming part of a legacy of service that dates back to 1881. Whether you commit five hours a month or build a career in humanitarian aid, your contribution makes a measurable difference. Thousands of lives are touched every day because someone decided to act. That someone could be you.

🚀 Ready to make an impact? Visit redcross.org/volunteer or redcross.org/jobs today and take your first step toward helping others in need.