In celebration of Nurses Week, Linda Fahey, Chief Nurse of the American Red Cross, expressed gratitude to over 15,400 health and mental health volunteers for their contributions to community health and resilience. This acknowledgment extends to health professionals who work alongside volunteers to fulfill the Red Cross mission. The organization aims to maintain a diverse and engaged workforce that fosters volunteerism and promotes wellness across all communities.
Since the last Nurses Week in 2024, volunteers have been active in providing critical health services in various disaster situations, including the aftermath of Hurricanes Beryl, Debby, Helene, and Milton, as well as during severe wildfires in California. The spring of 2025 saw an increase in natural disasters, with floods and tornadoes impacting the Midwest and South, and volunteers were on the ground offering care and support.
Volunteers have also contributed to the nation’s blood supply, delivered life-saving apheresis services, supported military families, provided essential training in CPR and first aid, and advocated for vaccination initiatives against measles and rubella. Many volunteers take on multiple roles, showcasing their versatility and commitment to the Red Cross mission.
Fahey emphasized the importance of preparation for an escalating number of disasters, noting that the U.S. experienced a major disaster every four days in 2024, a trend that appears to be continuing into 2025. She encouraged volunteers to expand their skill sets by participating in disaster health services training, which equips them to respond effectively in their communities or on deployment.
In a special event on May 14, 2025, Kate Forbes, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), will share her experiences and insights from her global travels with Red Cross volunteers. Forbes, who was elected president in December 2023, is only the second woman to hold this position. Her work includes visiting conflict-affected areas such as Gaza and Ukraine, where she observed the direct effects of recent funding changes in the humanitarian sector. The event will allow attendees to engage with Forbes and ask questions about her leadership and vision for the Red Cross.
As Nurses Week continues, the Red Cross encourages everyone to reflect on the achievements made in health and mental health services, while also preparing for the challenges that lie ahead. Fahey concluded by wishing everyone a happy Nurses Day, Week, and Month, reaffirming the commitment to service and community health.
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