WHEREAS, as one of the nation’s oldest and most recognized humanitarian organizations, the American Red Cross is woven tightly into the fabric of Alaskan life. The American Red Cross is notable for providing compassionate care when disasters and other crises threaten to overwhelm and destroy families. In times of crisis, Alaskans trust and rely on the Red Cross of Alaska to provide services and support; and
WHEREAS, the Red Cross leads the way in empowering individuals and families to protect themselves in uncertain times with four simple steps: make a plan, build a kit, get trained, and volunteer. This volunteer organization makes our communities safe by providing vital information needed to maintain safe and healthy lives through Red Cross courses in lifesaving skills, first aid, CPR, water safety, and much more; and
WHEREAS, the Red Cross also provides global emergency communication services and supports military and veteran health care facilities across the State of Alaska. We recognize the volunteer heroes in Alaska who make this work possible and support our neighbors when they need a helping hand; and
WHEREAS, despite the challenges throughout the coronavirus pandemic, people have stepped up to help others in need, whether it was responding to this year’s record-breaking disasters across the country or rolling up their sleeves to give blood when our country faced a severe blood shortage; and
WHEREAS, in Alaska, local families have relied on local volunteers for comfort and hope while coping with home fires and larger disaster responses. Last year, our 562 volunteers assisted both in person and virtually by responding to 230 disasters helping 370 families Volunteers also responded to a major disaster in Haines by sending 48 volunteers to provide shelter and emergency services to victims of the landslide; and
WHEREAS, every day, people in our Great State depend on the American Red Cross, whose lifesaving mission is powered by the devotion of volunteers, generosity of donors, and partnership of community organizations. The American Red Cross restores hope at home and throughout the world every day, while its vital services are a testament to the generosity and humanity of the American people.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim March 2021 as:
American Red Cross Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to support this organization and consider volunteering to assist with its noble humanitarian mission.
