Who is your local Red Cross?

We serve 2.5 million residents in 25 counties across central and southeast Ohio.

We are governed by deeply committed Boards of Directors, sustained by more than 2,000 volunteers and supported by 50 full and part time paid staff. Jamie Richardson of White Castle is the Chapter Chair and the CEO is Matt Bertram.

We are inspired by a Vision to deliver ARC services with excellence, be the most trusted and respected charity in central Ohio, and be a leader in resolving the critical needs of the community.

We are a proud member of the Global Red Cross Network which includes the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and national societies. We are partners with ARC Blood Services, Central Ohio Region. Among the strongest in the country, the region accepts voluntary blood donations in 27 counties and is the primary provider of blood and blood products to 42 regional hospitals and medical facilities.

What do we do in your community?

The American Red Cross is dedicated to saving lives, easing suffering and restoring hope at home and around the world.

Last year the American Red Cross Central-Southeast Ohio Region:

Responded to more than 700 local disasters, assisting 787 families, and mobilized volunteers when needed nationwide.

Trained nearly 43,000 area residents in First Aid, CPR, Water Safety and other life-saving courses.

Provided more than 15,000 trips for seniors and people with disabilities to medical and other important appointments.

Conveyed 750 emergency messages between military members and their families.

Educated more than 50,000 individuals about how to prepare for emergencies

When was the American Red Cross of Greater Columbus established?

The American Red Cross of Greater Columbus was granted a charter on July 3, 1916. The Columbus chapter's roots reach to the great flood of 1913, which struck this and other cities in Ohio and Indiana. Thousands lost their homes and were injured, and more than 500 died. The national Red Cross came to the aid of central Ohioans, and Columbus residents were inspired a few years later to form their own chapter to help in future emergencies.

What does the American Red Cross do in our region?

Prepares for major disasters, including threats to Homeland Security

Provides relief to local disaster victims (home fires, tornados and flooding are most prevalent)

Helps military families face emergencies

Saves lives through education and information

Supports seniors and others by driving them to life-sustaining medical appointments and facilitating their use of Lifeline, an emergency notification system.

How is the American Red Cross funded?

The Red Cross is an independent, not-for-profit volunteer organization that primarily relies on people like you for support. Your donations of time and money make their work possible. In addition, to seeking individual donations, the Red Cross raises funds in cooperation with the United Way of Central Ohio and United Ways throughout the counties we serve. The Red Cross also solicits funding through corporations and foundations and government contracts or grants.

Who are American Red Cross volunteers?

Red Cross volunteers are your neighbors, your co-workers and your friends. People of all ages, races and creeds donate their time to help make their communities better, safer places to live. Information on Volunteer activities and opportunities can be found on our Volunteer Page or by calling Volunteer Resources at 614-253-2740 Ext. 2355.