American Red Cross Founder's Day

American Red Cross Founder's Day is May 21st

American Red Cross Founders Day is a day to commemorate where our world's helpers started and how far they have come. The National American Red Cross is an organization that delivers vital services – from providing relief and support to those in crisis to helping you be prepared to respond in emergencies.

History of the American Red Cross

On May 21, 1881, Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross with one mission in sight - to help those in need. The organization received its first congressional charter in 1900, from then to present day they have been tasked by the federal government with providing services to members of the American armed forces and their families as well as providing disaster relief in the United States and around the world.

Their Principles

• Humanity - Red Cross was born out of desire to bring assistance in its international and national capacity. To prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. 
• Impartiality - no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class, or political opinions.
• Neutrality - Red Cross will not engage in controversies of political, racial, religious, or ideological nature.
• Independence - Red Cross is independent. Respective countries must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with Red Cross principles.
• Voluntary Service -  voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain.
• Unity - there is only one Red Cross. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.
• Universality - a worldwide institution in which all societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other.

What They Do

• Disaster Relief - helping families and communities recover from disasters.
• Lifesaving Blood - blood donations and requirements, hosting etc.
• Training and Certification - Health and safety courses for individuals and companies.
• International Services - providing aid and support programs around the world.
• Military Families - helping service members, veterans, and their families.

Ways to Celebrate

There are several ways to celebrate this commemoration day. All you really have to do is roll your sleeves up to prepare to do hard work and open up your heart to whomever may need it. Other things you can do is volunteer at Red Cross, Donate to the organization, educate yourself, and get certifications. You can also catch up on your literature if you are a big history buff.

American Red Cross Founders Day

This day commemorates an organization that constantly helps others, however you can do exactly this on more of a micro level - find a neighbor or community that may need some support or help.

Working toward helping others whether on a local or international scale without discrimination will always lead you in the right direction.