Volunteer Spotlight

Please click on the names below to learn about some of our amazing volunteers who give their time and energy towards helping the American Red Cross in Greater Los Angeles achieve our mission.

Danielle Bryan

Graduate student Danielle Bryan was looking for an internship opportunity which would provide her with “valuable hands-on experience.” Her quest led her to a summer internship for the Office of Volunteer Programs. She explains that her experience with the Red Cross has illustrated “just how incredible non-profit can be.”

Joe Chizmadia
His journey with the Red Cross began as a water safety instructor in Long Island, NY in 1963. After retiring from 21 years of military service and a 26-year career in corporate management. A volunteer of 45 years, Joe explains “it is the rewards that keep me coming back.”

Amy Gross
Amy has devoted most of her life to providing services to her community. She served as a Disaster Mental Health Volunteer Lead and later became an intern; where she developed the skills needed for organizing fundraisers in times of disasters. Her experience and expertise have earned her a position in the Development Department.

Paula Prunner
Paula has been known to leave a lasting impression on everyone she meets. She volunteers as an aide in the East San Fernando Valley District and she also participates at local outreach events and blood drives. She explains “I enjoy doing all of this because of the people that I meet. I love volunteering because I love helping people.”

Terry Garnett
Terry Garnett volunteers 15+ hours a week at the West San Fernando Valley District Office as a receptionist/front desk worker. She explains “Volunteering with the Red Cross keeps me active and my mind sharp.”

David and Mae Yeung
During the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, David and Mae Yeung’s relatives in New Orleans described how they benefited greatly from the Red Cross. Their relatives’ experience persuaded David and Mae to sign up as volunteers here in California. They “embarked on a new adventure together - working side by side for humanity.”

Art and Kathleen Rutherford
Art Rutherford is a District Duty Officer and Disaster Action Team leader for the South Bay District. He has managed local disaster shelters and larger ones. Art teaches several Red Cross classes for volunteers, and supports the Red Cross in its preparedness efforts, working with the local communities and disaster planning.

Natalie Bradford and Richard Moreno
Natalie and Richard volunteer as instructors teaching First Aid, CPR, and Disaster Training classes at the West Valley and East Valley districts. They have provided their services in numerous local disasters and single family disasters. They explain that are committed to their involvement with the Red Cross because they believe in its mission and have compassion for other people.