Heroes Gather at the Red Cross

This morning Mike and I attended the kickoff breakfast for the 5th Annual Heroes Campaign.
Mike is pictured with Robin and Bill Goodman, the energetic co-chairs of this year's campaign. Robin and Bill's enthusiasm is contagious and will surely lead us to success.

We also had the opportunity to hear from a family (who I shall refer to as the Smiths) who recently lost their home to a house fire. The family arrived home to find their house burning. During a bad thunderstorm, lightening hit a tree which fell on their house. Mrs. Smith described the horror she felt as they returned home to find fire trucks blocking the road in front of their house. They thought there had been a car accident when, in fact, their house was ablaze. It's everyone's worst nightmare. Mrs Smith said the Red Cross was there in five minutes. Darrell Hill, Emergency Services Director for the High Point-Thomasville Chapter responded to the call. Mrs. Smith thanked Darrell for the emotional support he provided. She is grateful for all the assistance she received from the Red Cross and knows it would not be possible without the financial support of the community. She plans to give back to the community by offering a "helping hand" anytime she is needed. It looks like we have a new Red Cross volunteer. It is stories like this that make me proud to be a part of the community and the Red Cross.

How Do You Raise a $1000?
Bob Ziegler, Executive Director of the High Point - Thomasville Red Cross, said it can be as easy as writing out a check for $1000 or it can be a little more creative. Some heroes ask their co-workers to help by holding bake sales, car washes or company drives. Others have held dinner parties or baked desserts. One employer at a local accounting firm pledged to kiss a goat if his employees raised $1000. They did and he did. This year Bob Ziegler challenged his staff to raise the $1000 and if they do, he will shave off the beard we have never seen him without. Okay Bob, get that razor ready.

How is Mike going to raise the $1000? I don't think he should have to shave his beard because I might go into shock and the cats won't come back in the house. Mike is already a Red Cross hero. If you know Mike you know he loves helping others. Volunteering with the Red Cross has enabled him to serve his community in ways he never could have on his own. It is not an easy job, but he loves it and it shows. I hope you will help me honor him by reading the daily blogs and if you can, giving a little to the Heroes Campaign.