On May 8, the American Red Cross will join with the other 185 Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies from around the globe to celebrate World Red Cross Red Crescent Day. May 8 marks the 180th birthday of Henry Dunant, founder of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Motivated by his experiences during the Battle of Solferino in 1859, Henry Dunant began to advocate for the humane treatment of the sick and wounded during wartime. The first World Red Cross Red Crescent Day was celebrated in 1948.
Today, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (Movement) is comprised of more than 97 million staff, volunteers and members and assists more than 277 million people worldwide.
World Red Cross Red Crescent Day offers a great opportunity to learn more about how your American Red Cross works on vital issues locally and internationally as part of the Movement to benefit people at home and around the globe.
You can aslo celebrate World Red Cross Red Crescent Day and help make an impact at home and overseas by:
- volunteering your time
- donating money or hosting a fundraiser for the International Disaster Relief Fund [Measles Initiative or Malaria Prevention Program]
- giving blood regularly; and
- taking steps to prepare for future disasters and Be Red Cross Ready.
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