Greater Akron and the Mahoning Valley

By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

Northern Ohio has many dedicated volunteers who serve the American Red Cross in various ways. Making up approximately 90% of its workforce, the Red Cross truly relies on the support of its volunteers to run. Since National Volunteer Week occurred in late April of this year, several events have taken place across the region recognizing the impact that they make on a daily basis.

Volunteer Engagement Specialist Kelsey Jeffery handing off an award to one of our hardworking volunteers in our Heartland, Stark and Muskingum Lakes chapter.

“Our volunteers generously give their time and talents to the Red Cross, and we want to recognize them and celebrate all their hard work,” said Kelsey Jeffery, Volunteer Engagement Specialist.

Earlier this month, volunteer Jill Sterling was awarded the Spirit of Excellence Award, recognizing her 10 years of service as a biomed office assistant with the Red Cross. Susan Gordos, Biomed Volunteer Engagement Specialist, noted the impact that Jill’s service has had at the Red Cross.

Jill Sterling receiving the Spirit of Excellence Award for her service to the Red Cross mission.

“(Jill) conducts phone calls to past donors, provides information about upcoming drives, and encourages continued participation. Her communication is both professional and compassionate, ensuring donors feel valued and informed,” Susan noted. “By fostering strong relationships with the community and promoting consistent donor engagement, Jill contributes significantly to maintaining a reliable blood supply and advancing the Red Cross mission.”

Susan estimated that over the course of her volunteer work, Jill has made over 12,000 outreach calls to potential blood donors. Dedicated volunteers like this are the reason why the American Red Cross continues to thrive 145 years after its inception.

Volunteer Recruitment Specialist Katie Bensinger handing out raffle prizes at the volunteer recognition event in the Greater Akron and Mahoning Valley chapter.

Katie Bensinger, Volunteer Recruitment Specialist, had this to say about her time spent working with volunteers: “My first three months with the Red Cross have been filled with so many meaningful interactions with our volunteers. The three Recognition and Appreciation events I was able to attend were filled with those meaningful moments,” Katie said. “ I was able to hear so many of our volunteers’ Red Cross stories and the impact our organization has had on their lives and their communities. The volunteers’ commitment to the mission and the thousands of hours of their time that they give inspire me every day.”

Volunteers are always needed! With dozens of different roles to explore, there is truly something for everyone. To learn more about the Northern Ohio Region of the Red Cross, including upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, click HERE.

By Ryan Lang, American Red Cross

The American Red Cross of Greater Akron and the Mahoning Valley has been celebrating everyday heroes from the local community for the past 30 years with the annual Acts of Courage event in Akron. On March 5, 2026, the chapter celebrated its 30th and final Acts of Courage event marking the end of an era.

Rachel Stine, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Greater Akron and the Mahoning Valley

“It’s been an absolute honor to be a part of the Acts of Courage event for over 10 years,” said Rachel Stine, Executive Director, Red Cross of Greater Akron and Mahoning Valley. “This event has showcased those who truly care about community and embody the spirit of the Red Cross.”

In fact, the entire event has embodied the spirit of the Red Cross for decades, and the grand finale was no different. From a Red Cross volunteer saving a life at a local restaurant, to one of our youngest recipients, a seven-year-old girl, calling for help when no one else heard her neighbor, the acts of courage that were on display were astounding.

Jack McCabe, 2026 H. Peter Burg Community Leadership Award recipient

We also honored this year’s H. Peter Burg Community Leadership Award recipient, Jack McCabe. Jack is a longtime board member and Vice President and General Manager for the Utility Vegetation Management division of Davey Resource Group. Jack is a true servant leader and is making a difference in his community and beyond every day.

See all of the photos from the event here, and tap the videos below to hear the stories from our heroes themselves. Also, below is a short vignette that takes you on a journey from where the Red Cross in Greater and Akron the Mahoning Valley was, is, and will be.

As for what the future holds, Rachel says, “You will see your Red Cross over the next 30 years continue to honor even more heroes every day with volunteers serving and meeting the needs of communities near and far.”

Acts of Courage awards recipients:

Chris’ Red Cross training kicked in when a student at the Medina County Career Center needed it most: