What the American Red Cross does and who it serves
The American Red Cross is a U.S.-based humanitarian organization that helps people prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies. It provides shelter, food, health services, and emotional support during disasters, supports military members and families, collects and processes blood, and trains millions in first aid, CPR, and lifesaving skills. The organization serves communities across the United States through a network of chapters and volunteers, focusing on both large-scale emergencies and everyday needs. Its congressional mandate, delivered in partnership with local affiliates, makes it a primary link between the public and emergency response capacity in the United States.
Governance, leadership, and structure
The American Red Cross operates as a congressionally chartered, nonprofit corporation independent of government funding, while coordinating closely with federal agencies such as FEMA and the Department of Defense. A volunteer-led Board of Governors provides oversight and sets policy, guided by the organization's congressional charter and bylaws. National headquarters in Washington, D.C., supports local chapters, which deliver services in their communities. Independent audits, financial disclosures, and annual reports are published to ensure transparency and accountability to donors, partners, and the public.
Key governance bodies
| Body | Role | Typical term |
|---|---|---|
| Board of Governors | Sets strategic direction and oversees operations | Up to six years |
| National executive team | Manages day-to-day programs and services | Employment term |
| Local chapter boards | Govern regional operations and community engagement | Varies |
Core services and programs
The organization delivers services in four main areas: disaster response, military and veteran support, biomedical services, and safety training. During disasters, it coordinates sheltering, provides immediate necessities, and supports long-term recovery. For military families, it offers emergency communications, financial assistance, and caregiver support. The Red Cross collects, tests, and distributes a significant portion of the nation’s blood supply, while also offering health services such as screenings and immunizations. It trains millions annually in first aid, CPR, water safety, and professional-level instruction, creating a broad base of community resilience.
Service categories at a glance
| Service area | Key offerings | Primary audience |
|---|---|---|
| Disaster response | Shelter, food, health services, recovery | Individuals and families affected by disasters |
| Military support | Emergency messaging, financial aid, caregiver resources | Service members, veterans, and families |
| Blood services | Collects, processes, and distributes blood and blood productsHospitals and patients in need||
| Training and education | CPR, first aid, water safety, professional trainingGeneral public, workplaces, and community groups
How it is funded and how funds are used
The American Red Cross relies on a mix of individual donations, corporate partnerships, grants, and revenue from blood products and training fees. Government contributions primarily support specific programs, such as disaster relief under agreements with agencies like FEMA. Donor funds are allocated across program services, fundraising, and administrative costs, with program spending typically forming the largest portion of expenses. Financial efficiency and transparency are communicated through annual reports, IRS filings, and independent audits. Major gifts, workplace campaigns, and planned giving options allow donors to support sustained programs and long-term initiatives.
Sample allocation (indicative)
| Category | Typical percent of expenses | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Program services | Largest share (often 70–85%) | Direct service delivery and support |
| Fundraising | Low to mid-single digits to low teens | Includes events, digital outreach, and donor appeals |
| Administration | Single digits to mid-teens | Includes governance, compliance, HR, and IT |
Volunteer engagement and community involvement
Volunteers are central to the American Red Cross, supporting disaster operations, blood drives, logistics, communications, and administrative functions. Community members can serve as shelter providers, first aid and CPR instructors, event staff, and mentors. The organization emphasizes background checks, role-specific training, and safety protocols to ensure volunteers are prepared and supported. Partnerships with local governments, schools, and businesses help expand reach and resources, enabling rapid response during local crises and sustained programs year-round.
Accountability, standards, and public trust
The American Red Cross adheres to nonprofit best practices, including independent financial audits, public reporting of key metrics, and compliance with federal regulations for nonprofits and charities. It reports annually on service accomplishments, financial performance, and governance practices. The organization follows recognized standards for disaster management and humanitarian response, and it collaborates with the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement for guidance and coordination during large-scale events. These measures support credibility, informed donor decisions, and ongoing community engagement.
How to support and get involved
Individuals can support the American Red Cross through donations, workplace giving, volunteering, and planned gifts. Blood donation appointments can be scheduled via the organization’s website or mobile app, and training courses are available in person and online. Local chapters host community events and informational sessions, and corporate partners can explore employee engagement and sponsorship opportunities. Those interested in service can also explore volunteer orientations and background check requirements to match skills with appropriate roles. These pathways enable sustained involvement with a trusted humanitarian organization.
Frequently asked questions about the American Red Cross
- What is the primary mission of the American Red Cross?
- Is the American Red Cross part of the government?
- Where do donations to the American Red Cross go?
To help people prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies, and to support military members and families.
No, it is a congressionally chartered nonprofit that operates independently but coordinates with government agencies such as FEMA and the Department of Defense.
The majority of donations fund program services such as disaster response, blood collection, military support, and health and safety training.
Key takeaways
- A congressionally chartered nonprofit that delivers disaster response, blood services, military support, and training in the United States.
- Governed by a volunteer Board of Officers and supported by local chapters, with transparent reporting and independent oversight.
- Programs are primarily funded by individual and corporate donations, with the bulk of spending on direct services.
- Volunteers and partnerships are central to delivering community-based preparedness and emergency response.
- Donors and partners can engage through donations, volunteering, blood drives, and training courses.