It is a privilege for me to communicate
with you about an organization I love and have served for
the past 20 years. In May 1988, I accepted the position of
Executive Director and the seemingly overwhelming challenges
the job required.
One day at a time, with the help of committed staff and volunteers,
we have grown strong in fulfilling our mission, growing finances
and volunteers and earning the respect our trusted symbol
deserves. The Ouachita Parish Chapter expanded and became
the Northeast Louisiana Chapter in November 1996. We moved
from 500 N 20th Street to 414 Breard Street thanks to a tremendous
Capital Fund Campaign led by Doctor Ralph G. Asbury.
Our local chapter is rich in the history of our country and
community. We were chartered in May 1917 and I am proud to
say that my great grandmother May Lee Wooten was a charter
member. She was one of several community leaders who rolled
up their sleeves to serve in a time of war. Priorities included
organizing canteens for soldiers, wrapping bandages, and serving
as nurses.
Now in 2008, we have a different war with undefined battlegrounds.
We are providing food, mental health counseling and help with
living expenses such as rent. In a time of peace and
of war, the American Red Cross stands ready to serve.
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For over 120 years, Americans have
relied on the American Red Cross' expertise in disaster relief.
The unique contribution of American Red Cross founder Clara
Barton to the growing worldwide Red Cross Movement in the
late nineteenth century was organizing volunteers to help
disaster victims. Clara Barton, a great role model, was a
hero to many.
We have local heroes today who teach swimming lessons
for free, feed disaster victims, teach First Aid and CPR,
provide HIV and AIDS education and encourage individuals in
4 area nursing homes. Our Nursing Home Volunteers, formerly
known as Gray Ladies, have served faithfully for 54 years.
Faye Weinberg, who died 5 years ago, celebrated 50 years of
service to St. Joseph 's Nursing Home.
What a rich heritage we share. 
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