Since its founding in 1881 by visionary leader Clara Barton, the American Red Cross has been the nation’s premier emergency response organization. As part of a worldwide movement that offers neutral humanitarian care to the victims of war, the American Red Cross distinguishes itself by also aiding victims of devastating natural disasters. Over the years, the organization has expanded its services, always with the aim of preventing and relieving suffering. In all their work, they abide by the seven fundamental principles humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality.

The American Red Cross offers compassionate services in five other areas community services that help the needy; support and comfort for military members and their families; the collection, processing and distribution of lifesaving blood and blood products; educational programs that promote health and safety; and international relief and development programs. American Red Cross International Services helps vulnerable people and communities around the world prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters, humanitarian crises, and health emergencies, through mobilizing the power of the world’s largest humanitarian network, with 186 Red Cross and Red Crescent national societies and more than 97 million volunteers.

For more information, please visit http://www.redcross.org