The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.

Description:
American Red Cross Blood Services is responsible for about 50% of the nation's blood supply. In Northern California, the American Red Cross delivers more than 10,000 units of blood to Bay Area hospitals every month. We have blood centers in Pleasant Hill, Pleasanton, Fremont/Newark, and Oakland. In addition, the Blood Services region holds more than 40 blood drives at businesses, schools, churches and community centers. Volunteers support this effort in a variety of ways. They greet and register blood donors, provide refreshments and support post-donation, deliver life-saving blood products to local hospitals, call donors to schedule their next appointment, and provide administrative support to our Oakland headquarters.

History:
The American Red Cross was established in 1881 by Clara Barton, who dedicated herself to aiding the wounded during the Civil War as well as victims of natural disasters. In 1905, the American Red Cross received the Congressional Charter under which it still operates today.

In 1941, American Red Cross began the National Blood Donor Service to collect blood for the U.S. military. Dr. Charles Drew was appointed as medical director. In 1948, the American Red Cross began its National Blood program for civilians, opening its first collection center in Rochester, NY.

In 1972, the American Red Cross called for a national blood policy requiring standardized practices and discontinuing paid donations. These became Federal law in 1974.

The American Red Cross also continues its long history of relief to victims of disasters, responding to more than 65,000 disasters a year.

We affirm our commitment to the International Red Cross Fundamental Principles of Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality.

Contact people:

Anne Blackstone, Volunteer Coordinator, (phone), (email) Mandy Lewis Nakaya, Supervisor, (phone), (email)

Office fax number: (510) 601-7954

Address:

6230 Claremont Ave (@ College Ave) Oakland, CA 94618 (See a map)

Web Site: http://chapters.redcross.org/ca/norcal

Directions:

Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: Rockridge BART,   Walk distance (in minutes): 8   Nearest Bus Stop: AC Transit #51, 2 minute walk