Students visit the American Red Cross Donor Center to learn about volunteering opportunities

Students from Kecoughtan High School and Phoebus High School, along with their college and career coach Alicia Lanier, visited the American Red Cross Donor Center of Hampton to learn about volunteering opportunities with the organization.

Steven Bilski, the coastal Virginia community disaster program specialist, hosted the visit and shared information and opportunities with the students.

“My experience with the American Red Cross Donor Center of Hampton was incredibly insightful, showing me the diverse impact the organization has beyond blood drives. I had the opportunity to help sort food and supplies for international aid, which highlighted the Red Cross’s commitment to global relief efforts and how small actions can create a big difference,” said Taylor Reynolds of Kecoughtan High School. “This inspired me to explore starting an American Red Cross club at our school, where students can participate in similar projects, raise awareness about the organization’s work, and contribute to initiatives like disaster preparedness and community support. Through these efforts, we can foster a culture of service and make a meaningful impact locally and globally.”

Shemiah Davison of Phoebus High School shared, “My experience at the American Red Cross Donor Center of Hampton was very eye-opening. I enjoyed learning about the different things that occur at the center and the important roles of volunteers. Listening to the stories of volunteers giving back to the community and hearing them talk about how they loved being able to give back was amazing. The visit also gave me insight into things I didn’t know about the Red Cross. It was a very informative visit and I appreciate everyone there who took the time to share their experience with me and the other students.”

“I am excited to partner with local organizations to offer our students volunteer opportunities,” said Lanier. “Volunteering offers benefits from helping our students cultivate their confidence, discover their purpose, explore their passion, and gain interpersonal skills. At the American Red Cross Donor Center of Hampton, Kecoughtan and Phoebus High juniors and seniors were able to hear from all lines of services to learn more about ways to volunteer with the American Red Cross and participate in a service project to earn three hours of community service.”