American Red Cross

I was a volunteer to the Red Cross for several years. It took one month to reach someone about volunteering. I experienced voice mail, no answer, and no returned calls. Finally, I joined Service to The Armed Forces. The tasks I did include: Phone calls, letters and email to families whose relatives had joined the military. The intent was to advise families how to proceed in an emergency requiring the military member to return home. I served at blood drives, VA Hospital, events at schools, help to the homeless, and more.

Suddenly, I was called to meet with a supervisor to discuss my remediation. I never fully understood what I had done wrong but I was summarily dismissed as a volunteer. Red Cross personnel and volunteers were instructed not to have any contact with me. I appealed this decision to the ombudsman. She appointed people to investigate what happened and why. After eight months, I was told that the decision was final and that nothing more could be done.

As a US Army Veteran and a retired university professor, I feel that this treatment was hurtful and undeserved. I am presently looking for volunteer opportunities to help veterans.

Shame on The Red Cross.