Mom and daughter training to help disaster victims recover hope

Posted on March 28, 2025 by American Red Cross of Northern Ohio

By Eilene E. Guy, American Red Cross volunteer

The American Red Cross is often the destination of choice for married couples who want to volunteer: deploying to national disasters, taking therapy dogs into military hospitals, teaching health, safety and swimming skills.

Mother-daughter teams aren’t so common –- which is why Jennifer Barth and her daughter Ganessa Ney stand out. They’re bringing their individual educational and career experiences to the Red Cross to “give back” to their communities.

Ganessa, 33, was the first to look for an opportunity that would fit with her already busy schedule. A mom of one son and two teenage step-sons, she’s a sales manager for a senior living community and is finishing her second master’s degree (This one in psychology to go with a master’s in health administration.)

She’d heard of the Red Cross; a family member is a blood donor and big booster of that service. But it was an ad on television that prompted Ganessa to go online and learn about all the other things the organization does with volunteers.

“Wow, I could do something like that,” she said when she read about helping people in her own community who are struck by disaster.

Ganessa felt that becoming a disaster caseworker would fit her skillset and her schedule. Caseworkers work one-on-one with individuals and families after a disaster to help them sort out their needs, offer what assistance the Red Cross can provide and refer them to other community resources.

During 2024, volunteers opened 1,743 cases across the Red Cross northern Ohio region.

It occurred to Ganessa that casework might be just the thing for her mom too.

“I suggested the Red Cross to my mom,” she said. “It’s something she can do in her spare time.”

There’s a backstory to that “spare time” comment. Jennifer has been coping with the loss of three close family members within the past few years –- including her son from COVID. She admitted that having a way to help others in their time of distress would be good for her, too.

She was pleased with the wide variety of “jobs” the Red Cross offers volunteers. “They were so flexible,” she said, “so I felt comfortable to step forward.”

Jennifer, 52, worked as a U.S. census counter for 10 years and more recently has worked for Child Protective Services, so she’s comfortable talking — and listening — to people.

After completing online coursework focused on Red Cross disaster principles in general and casework in particular, Ganessa and Jennifer are “shadowing” an experienced caseworker, learning how help happens in real life.

“Here in northern Ohio and southeastern Michigan, the Red Cross responds to more than four local disasters every single day,” said Deb Pressley, Red Cross disaster program manager for the northwest counties of our region. “Dedicated, trained volunteers like Jennifer and Ganessa are ready to bring comfort and hope to our neighbors in the dark hours and days after disaster strikes.”

Jennifer is looking forward to that role. “I would want somebody to help me if I needed it,” she said.

If you’d like to find out more about the many volunteer opportunities with the Red Cross, visit here for more information.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Lorain County family continues legacy of Red Cross support

Posted on March 26, 2025 by American Red Cross of Northern Ohio

By Carolyn Anderson, Senior Regional Philanthropy Officer American Red Cross of Northern Ohio

Today is American Red Cross Giving Day. This year, the Red Cross is rallying 30,000 supporters nationwide to make a donation and help deliver aid after disasters. All services provided by the Red Cross after a disaster are free and that is only possible because of the financial support of the public. Here in Northern Ohio, one family has made a lasting impact on the Red Cross mission through their generosity.

Those who live or work in Lorain County have likely heard of the Norton family. As pillars of the community and highly respected philanthropists, the Norton name adorns The Ben and Jane Norton Culinary Arts Center on the campus of Lorain County Community College as well as the newly unveiled Ben and Jane Norton Center, part of the Neighborhood Alliance’s Haven Center Emergency Shelter expansion project that includes 19 new rooms for families in crisis.

What many may not know is the Norton family are also loyal supporters of the Red Cross. As they have done for many years now, The Norton Family Foundation recently awarded the Red Cross a generous grant to benefit Lorain County residents who have been impacted by disaster, including home fires.

In fact, the Norton family has been a part of the Red Cross story for decades. For many years, a portrait of Benjamin F. Norton proudly hung in the former Lorain County Chapter office building. A Korea war veteran and high school principal, Benjamin F. had a passion for the mission of the Red Cross. Recently, his son, Benjamin G. Norton, shared more about their family’s involvement with the Red Cross.

Mr. Norton explained that his father had served in many roles with the Red Cross for more than 30 years, including as Chairman of the former Lorain County Chapter Board from 1941-1946 and again in 1968. He even served as the Interim Executive Director of the Chapter in the early 1950s. Mr. Norton’s father passed away in 1977 but instilled in his children the importance of giving back to their community. Benjamin G. himself was awarded a Community Hero Award from the Red Cross in 2011.

Mr. Norton’s wife of 58 years, Jane, whom he affectionately referred to as “Janie,” passed away in 2023. Both natives of Lorain County, the two had known each other since they were young children. Jane was born into another well-known philanthropic family, the Stockers, and served as the first Executive Director of the Stocker Family Foundation, another great supporter of the Red Cross. The couple have three sons and 10 grandchildren, who are carrying on the legacy of their parents and grandparents by helping those in need. The Red Cross is grateful to the Norton and Stocker families for their many contributions to the organization and for all they have done to serve Lorain County.

Supporting the mission of the Red Cross is not limited to Giving Day and a gift of any size makes a difference when disaster strikes. For example, a donation of $3 can provide a comfort kit with supplies like a toothbrush, comb and shampoo, and a gift of $11 can provide a nutritious meal, snack and drink. To join the Red Cross and deliver aid when help can’t wait, tap here.

Posted by Jim McIntyre, Red Cross volunteer

National Medal of Honor Day and the Red Cross standard

Posted on March 25, 2025 by American Red Cross of Northern Ohio

The American Red Cross is celebrating National Medal of Honor Day, recognizing those members of the United States Armed Forces who have earned the highest military decoration in their service to the country. Stephen Bales, who chairs our Service to the Armed Forces Committee for the Northeast Ohio Board, recently gave the following presentation to his fellow board members, correlating the work of the Red Cross to National Medal of Honor recipients.

“Tuesday, March 25th, is National Medal of Honor Day. On March 25, 1863 the first Medal of Honor was presented to PVT Jacob Pratt, 33rd Ohio Infantry Regiment. Jacob Pratt was from Fairfield County, Ohio. I encourage you to read about his story and the other Medal of Honor recipients who were part of Andrews’ Raiders and the Battle of Chattanooga.

The Medal of Honor is the United States’ highest award for valor. Every Medal of Honor citation begins: “For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of one’s life, above and beyond the call of duty.”

Medal of Honor recipient Hershel W. “Woody” Williams with Stephen Bales, Red Cross board member and volunteer

In 2015, I had the honor of meeting Medal of Honor recipient Hershel Woodrow “Woody” Williams, CWO4 USMC (Ret). At that time, he was the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient for action during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Mr. Williams passed away in 2022 and was the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. What I remember most about meeting Mr. Williams was his extraordinary humility and overall sense of selflessness.

So why, you may ask, is Medal of Honor Day important to the Red Cross? Here are several thoughts that you might consider.

First, the Medal of Honor is, in some respects, about humanity. It is about individuals who, in the face of unimaginable danger, chose to act selflessly to save others. It is about courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to a greater good. These are the same values that drive Red Cross volunteers and staff every day.

A Marine runs into enemy fire to save a comrade. A Red Cross volunteer wades through flood waters to help a stranded family. While the context is certainly different, the core principle is the same: putting the needs of others above your own.

Second, Medal of Honor Day reminds us of the profound impact of service. It highlights the sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others. Just as Red Cross volunteers dedicated countless hours to disaster relief, blood drives, and community preparedness, Medal of Honor recipients demonstrated extraordinary dedication to their country.

Medal of Honor day offers a chance to reflect on the meaning of service and to inspire others to embrace a spirit of volunteerism and civic responsibility. It’s a reminder that even small acts of kindness and courage can make a difference.

Third, the stories of Medal of Honor recipients are powerful narratives of resilience and hope. These stories serve as a source of inspiration and demonstrate the strength of the human spirit and the ability to overcome adversity. At the Red Cross, we witness resilience every day, as individuals recover and communities rebuild after emergencies and disasters. Recognizing the unwavering resilience of Medal of Honor recipients reinforces the importance of our own work in fostering resilience in the face of hardship.

Whatever the reason might be, Medal of Honor Day is more than just a commemoration. It is a reminder of the values that unite us: courage, sacrifice, service, and resilience. By honoring these values, we reaffirm our commitment to the Red Cross mission and inspire others to embrace a spirit of humanitarianism and service.”

The Red Cross is committed to supporting our military and veteran families through our Service to the Armed Forces line of service. Click here to find out more about how you can support the effort.

Paul Wadowick: from lifelong blood donor to blood transfusion recipient

Posted on March 19, 2025 by American Red Cross of Northern Ohio

By Tim Poe, American Red Cross volunteer.

Our lives can change in a moment, posing difficulties, presenting challenges. In many of these instances, the American Red Cross is there to help, including providing life-saving blood when a transfusion is needed. Such was the case for Paul Wadowick of Ashtabula County. After he was diagnosed with blood cancer in the spring of 2021, Paul went from being a lifelong blood donor to being a blood recipient. Paul, who is also a Red Cross volunteer, was gracious enough to speak with me about his background and experience.

Paul has dedicated himself to assisting others throughout his life, and his parents were an early inspiration. Paul became aware of blood donations in the 1950s when his father, a universal donor, had a capability test for another person’s open-heart surgery. His mother was also a donor. Paul followed suit, and from 1968 until 2021, donated 137 units (17 gallons + 1 unit) of blood, helping to save many lives in the process.

While donating blood in 2021, he became aware of a problem. As part of our services, Red Cross blood donors receive a mini-health screening, including a hemoglobin test. Paul’s iron level had dropped dramatically. Shortly thereafter, he was working as a Blood Donor Ambassador at another blood drive, took the hemoglobin test again, and knew he had to see doctors. He learned he had blood cancer and began undergoing chemotherapy.

In October 2021, Paul received a “High Chemo” 15-day treatment, where he received two units of platelets, which are a component of blood. He recalled hearing how a donor of whole blood can save many lives. It then hit him that his was now one of those lives.

Thankfully, Paul’s cancer is in remission, and he continues his volunteer work with the Red Cross, mainly as a Blood Donor Ambassador, in addition to other community service.

Paul’s sense of responsibility and service is lifelong. As the third oldest in a family of 10, he assisted in the care of younger siblings and household chores. He was also class “dean” in his high-school seminary, volunteered in a long-term hospital, and found his calling in social work. After earning his degree and certification, Paul spent decades as a social worker, mostly at a long-term-care facility, while continuing his community service, including with the Boy Scouts. Paul and his wife, Denise, raised two sons.

After retiring in November 2015, Paul became a Red Cross volunteer in January 2016. He is also a member of the Knights of Columbus and credits his faith for his perseverance, gifts, and outlook.

Melissa Papini, a Red Cross Blood Services Account Manager, pointed out that Paul has been a Blood Program Leader with the Knights of Columbus for almost four years, recruiting over 400 donors and collecting 382 units of lifesaving blood.

Paul cited several favorite experiences as a Red Cross volunteer, especially photographing volunteer recognition celebrations, smoke alarm installations, and blood drive events in ways that tell a story. He also enjoys coaching and easing blood donors through the process and sending them home with a “Thank You.” And while he can no longer donate blood, he is happy to help recruit, organize, and bring in donations from others.

For anyone considering donating blood, Paul asks, “What would you do if you needed blood?” and reminds us that we may find ourselves, like he did, in a position where we or a loved one need it.

To schedule a donation, please visit www.redcrossblood.org.

American Red Cross Acts of Courage ’25

Posted on March 12, 2025 by American Red Cross of Northern Ohio

Honoring ordinary people who’ve done extraordinary things

The 29th Annual American Red Cross Acts of Courage event was a night to remember. As it does every year, the awards ceremony kicked off with the H. Peter Burg Award recipient. The American Red Cross of Greater Akron and the Mahoning Valley proudly presents the H. Peter Burg Award each year to one or more individuals who best exemplify leadership in the community, compassion for its people and dedication to the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross.

Kathleen Paydo, Ron Paydo – 2025 H. Peter Burg Award recipient, Rachel Stine – Executive Director of Greater Akron and the Mahoning Valley

Ron Paydo, market president for The Huntington National Bank in the Akron Canton area, has been named the recipient of the 2025 H. Peter Burg Community Leadership Award. Paydo, who serves on the American Red Cross of Greater Akron and Mahoning Valley board, was selected by a committee of past award winners. Ron is the epitome of what the H. Peter Burg Award represents and is a pillar of his community.

In 2025, the Red Cross is honoring Heroes to Blood – individuals, organizations, or corporations that have gone above and beyond to aid in the collection of our nation’s blood supply. The inaugural recipients of the Heroes to Blood award were:

Ruby Dailey

Ruby’s extensive volunteer work with the American Red Cross has made her a beloved figure in her community. Since retiring, Ruby has donated over seven gallons of blood and actively supports blood drives. Her warm personality and genuine care for others create a welcoming environment for donors. Even well into her 90's, Ruby still contributes, from homemade treats to personalized interactions, and has significantly enhanced the blood donation experience for so many others.

Charla Martin-Bloodsaw

Charla is being recognized for her tireless efforts in promoting minority blood donations and sickle cell awareness in Summit County. Through organizing blood drives, educating the community, and participating in sickle cell activities, Charla has made a significant impact. Her dedication to raising awareness and encouraging blood and plasma donations has helped save countless lives and support those affected by sickle cell disease.

The Red Cross values the health and well-being of our blood donors. During the month of March, the Red Cross will expand its health offerings to include A1C screening, a test commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, for all donors who make a successful blood, platelet or plasma donation. Understanding our own health is the foundation for helping prevent chronic illness and a blood donation can be a part of that journey.

The 2025 Acts of Courage Award recipients include a group of women who saved a runner from an attacker in the park, a military veteran whose quick thinking helped save his neighbor’s life, and a teacher who saved a choking student, TWICE!

Kendra Santiago

Dominos employee Kendra Santiago was taking an order over the phone when the man she was talking to suddenly went quiet. Kendra decided to deliver the pizza herself so she could check on the customer. When she arrived, she found him having a seizure and not breathing. Kendra called 911 and stayed with the customer and his wife until help arrived.

Samantha Wilson

While monitoring the cafeteria during lunch at Suffield Elementary School, Samantha Wilson noticed a student choking. She immediately began performing stomach thrusts on the student and finally dislodged the food after several attempts.

Daureatha Hython

While driving home from work late one night, Daureatha Hython saw a car accident on I-77. She stopped to help and found the driver of the vehicle wedged against the steering wheel with no pulse. Daureatha, and other motorists who had stopped, moved the victim and began CPR. They were able to revive the person before paramedics arrived to transport them to the hospital.

Dave Parsons

Dave Parsons was helping his friend Aaron clear trees on his property when one of the trees fell on Aaron, trapping him on his tractor. Dave rushed to help and saw Aaron was severely injured and bleeding. Dave used a ratchet strap to create a makeshift tourniquet and applied it to Aaron’s injury. He then called 911 and stayed with Aaron until help arrived.

Donna McFadden, Susan Victor, Laura Rufe – Acts of Courage Awards recipients

Donna McFadden, Laura Rufe, and Susan Victor

While walking together in Cascade Valley Metro Park Donna McFadden, Laura Rufe and Susan Victor witnessed a woman being attacked. They called 911 and then confronted the assailant, hitting him on the head with a rock so the victim could escape. Donna, Laura and Susan stayed with the victim until the authorities arrived and arrested the attacker.

Veronica Graves, Madelyn Stys, Reagan MacTavish – Acts of Courage Award recipients

Reagan MacTavish, Veronica Graves and Madelyn Stys

When a participant in an Aqua Aerobics class at the Wadsworth YMCA suffered a cardiac arrest, lifeguards Reagan MacTavish, Veronica Graves and Madelyn Stys jumped into action. Reagan alerted other staff and began rescue efforts, including CPR. Veronica and Madelyn assisted Reagan also performing CPR and using an AED. The member was transported to the hospital and recovered.

To nominate individuals for heroic Acts of Courage, click here!

American Red Cross remains committed to helping everyone as needs increase

Posted on March 5, 2025 by American Red Cross of Northern Ohio

By Tim Poe, American Red Cross volunteer

Portrait of Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross.

She was bent over, sobbing, frustrated, nearly everything in her family’s apartment destroyed. We sat in an American Red Cross vehicle outside a partially burned apartment complex. It was near the beginning of the school year, and she had recently purchased books, school supplies and clothes for her children. Unfortunately, her neighbor, whom I had helped earlier, had a moment of carelessness. Like most renters I assisted, especially those in lower-income areas, she did not have renter’s insurance. But we were there. One of my favorite moments as a Red Cross volunteer was handing her an aid packet, a lifeline, and seeing her frustration and despair turn to gratitude and resilience. Her family would have a place to stay, would eat, and her children’s clothes and school supplies would be replaced. Her race, gender, legal status, religion, beliefs, class and orientation didn’t matter. She needed help, and the Red Cross provided.

Scenes like this play out an average of three times per day in Northern Ohio, and about 65,000 times per year nationally. Similarly, someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds, while U.S. Armed Forces members, veterans and their families receive assistance daily. Our services have never, nor will ever, be contingent on anything other than if someone needs our help.

As March is Red Cross Month, we would like to reiterate that helping everyone has been a core principle since our founding in 1881 and remains central to our Fundamental Values of
humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. Clara Barton, who faced discrimination as a woman, believed in “perfectly equal rights–human rights,” and instilled those values in the Red Cross from the outset.

For the past 144 years, the Red Cross remained committed to helping those in need, bringing out the best of humanity in times of crisis.

February 25, 2025. Pike County, Kentucky.
American Red Cross volunteer, Tony Susi, comforts Tina Roberts after she lost her entire home in Eastern Kentucky after devastating floods hit her community just over a week ago.

Red Crossers are on the ground across Kentucky, assessing damage, working with community partners and local emergency management, and providing hot meals, a safe place to stay and other support to residents impacted by flooding.

Photo by Scott Dalton/American Red Cross

The need for Red Cross services and the commitment to help everyone has never been greater. The climate crisis is having a tremendous impact, as the Red Cross is responding to nearly twice as many large disasters as a decade ago, and they are increasing. Additionally, the climate crisis is taking a heavier toll on frontline communities, including low-income families, older adults, communities of color and people with disabilities.

The Red Cross is responding to these challenges through strengthening partner networks;
improving disaster relief capacity; enhancing our engagement with diverse communities, including offering information in Spanish; reaching out to diverse blood donors; continuing our Sickle Cell initiative; and adding health screenings for blood donors at different times throughout the year, currently including screening for Sickle Cell trait and, this month, A1C.

We could use your help. If you can donate blood, give financially or volunteer, your assistance has a tremendous impact. And no matter who you are, please reach out if disaster strikes, as the Red Cross continues its commitment to helping all.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, Red Cross volunteer

Posted by Ryan Lang, Red Cross board member and volunteer

NOHredcross

American Red Cross of Northern Ohio Region

Monthly Archives: March 2025