For more than 100 years, the American Red Cross has delivered disaster relief and other life-saving services to the community through local chapters, including nine chapters in Los Angeles County.

The Red Cross is now implementing a new model whereby chapters nationwide, including local chapters, are reviewing ways to increase operational efficiencies by forming regional partnerships.

“By combining our strengths — including sharing systems and expertise — we can continue to run highly successful chapters in our communities,” said Paul Schulz, CEO, American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles.

Seven L.A. County Red Cross chapters — Claremont, Arcadia, Glendale, Santa Monica, Antelope Valley, San Gabriel Pomona Valley and Greater Los Angeles — are realigning into a regional grouping under the direction of the Greater Los Angeles chapter. The Rio Hondo and Long Beach chapters are not part of the current reorganization.

By July 1, 2010 (the new fiscal year), the chapters will consolidate accounting operations and donor information. Board members, volunteers and staff members from the seven chapters are also reviewing how to better work together to raise funds, provide disaster services and offer Health and Safety courses. 

“In aligning the resources at our local chapters, we will ensure that the donor dollars we receive go even further,” said Schulz.