Tidewater to match July monetary donations

Dear Friends,

The photo depicts a local volunteer witnessing total destruction of a family residence in Southwest Washington. The family received Red Cross Services (always free) to start the process of getting back on their feet. Scenes like this one will occur more often during the current dry season, when conversely, donations are lower in the summer months.

Scenes like this one will occur more often during this time of year. When a disaster strikes, the Red Cross will respond immediately, regardless of time of day, location, or cost. Large disasters such as the fires in Colorado or the flooding in Florida, or small disasters such as a house fire, the Red Cross is always on the scene to provide food, shelter, clothing, comfort and care to those who have nowhere else to turn.

One of our local businesses who stepped up to help is Tidewater. They have presented us with a $5,000 matching gift challenge. For every dollar we receive from individuals and businesses during July 2012, Tidewater will match up to $5,000. We are so grateful for their compassion and leadership.

Please consider a gift to the American Red Cross and join us in helping to turn heartbreak into hope.

Sincerely,

Sheryl J. Beauchaine
Regional Executive Southwest Washington

Angel Montes Chosen as Donor Resource Supervisor for SW Washington Red Cross Blood Services

After working nearly 10 years for the Red Cross in Portland, Oregon, Angel Montes was selected as the new Donor Recruitment Supervisor for the American Red Cross Blood Services in Southwest Washington. In his new position, he will be responsible for the logistics involved in meeting the demand for blood products.

Angel views job challenges as ensuring that the organization meets the demand for blood products by area hospitals, expanding outreach to all demographics, increasing youth involvement in blood drives, enlisting more blood donors, and continuing to keep volunteers energized and motivated.

Angel first became involved with the Red Cross as a Red Cross youth volunteer and blood donor at age sixteen while attending Fort Vancouver High School.  After completing his schooling, he was hired by the American Red Cross Pacific Northwest Region as a donor scheduler. Angel progressed to lead recruiter and then to donor scheduling supervisor. He has been a territory representative for the past four years responsible to recruit sponsors and establish community blood drives.

A self-named “political junkie,” Angel is currently working on a college degree in political science. In his spare time, he enjoys running, biking, and swimming and has completed several marathons. He participated in the recent Spartan Race in Washougal and has a goal to compete in a triathlon.

Angel will be working out of the Clark County Donor Center located near the Westfield Vancouver Mall at 5109 NE 82^nd Avenue, Vancouver, Washington 98662.

Jim Boline
SW Washington Red Cross Media Team