Build Your Resume with the Red Cross

As a volunteer, you’ve likely experienced the altruistic satisfaction that comes from knowing that you’ve positively contributed to someone else’s life. But did you know that volunteering can also make a difference in your own life?

When you volunteer, your participation can improve your ability to be hired or promoted, especially if you are just starting your career or transitioning to a new field. Volunteering with the American Red Cross demonstrates your ability to work with others, as well as your commitment to a greater cause. According to a study conducted by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS):

• Volunteers have a 27% higher likelihood of finding a job after being out of work than non-volunteers.
• Volunteers without a high school diploma have a 51% higher likelihood of finding employment.
• Volunteers living in rural areas have a 55% higher likelihood of finding employment.

In addition to developing leadership and interpersonal skills, you are likely to expand your personal network and skillset while serving your community.

Volunteering with the Red Cross

The American Red Cross has many volunteer positions available across a variety of skillsets and specializations. Popular positions for youth volunteers include donor ambassador and blood program leader. You can also support blood drive efforts with other volunteer positions. Donor ambassadors provide customer service while transportation specialists play an essential role in delivering blood to hospitals. The Blood Services scheduling team offers virtual volunteering opportunities which give students flexibility and the chance to build remote work skills.

You can also be a volunteer blood donor! Donating blood may not be the first thing that springs to mind when one thinks about volunteering, yet this selfless act helps save the lives of children and adults in your community. Blood can’t be manufactured and can only be stored for a limited time, so hospitals rely on regular donors to meet ongoing supply needs.

As a blood donor, you’ll play a vital role in improving and maintaining the health of your community. From the moment you enter the blood drive or donation facility to the moment you leave, a whole blood donation only takes about an hour. You can donate every 56 days, or about six times per year. That makes it easy to fit in a busy student schedule or combine with other volunteer experience. If you are volunteering in another role for the Red Cross, such as by hosting a blood drive, having firsthand experience as a blood donor can help you connect with potential donors. Many colleges and employers recognize regular blood donation as volunteer service, so you can add it to your resume and LinkedIn page. And you can give yourself a pat on the back for doing good for others!

How to become a volunteer blood donor:

• Most states require that you be at least 17 years old to donate blood, but some allow 16-year-old individuals to donate with a signed parental consent form
• You’ll need to weigh at least 110 lbs. and be in good health
• All blood types are needed, but some such as type O negative are almost always in high demand (Don’t know your blood type? Make an appointment and find out!)

Build Your Resume

If you’re looking for ways to build your resume while in school, volunteering provides valuable experience that will impress hiring managers. Volunteering can help young people bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world skills. It is also a great way to explore potential careers, especially if you aren’t sure of your career path just yet. 

In addition to benefiting your professional life, volunteering can also boost your health and happiness. You’ll meet new people, learn new skills and develop a sense of purpose, all of which can positively influence your health. If you are volunteering in your own community, you’ll also develop a stronger connection with your neighborhood. Since many young graduates move to new cities for job opportunities, it’s a great way to put down roots in your new home.

Sign up to volunteer as a blood donor today and check out other urgently needed volunteer positions in your area.