March has been declared Red Cross Month here in Maine and in states around the nation. It’s a time to highlight the important work done by this amazing organization, which aids those impacted by disasters, collects and distributes much-needed blood, teaches safety classes, and more.

As a relatively new Red Cross volunteer, I’ve seen in a short time how much this organization helps our neighbors throughout the state.

The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on generous donations of time, money and blood to do its work. In Maine, there are 650 people who volunteer for the Red Cross, many in Disaster Services, aiding victims of a fire or staffing a shelter for those who lose power during storms. Volunteers respond to nearly 300 fires annually, providing food, shelter and short-term housing for those impacted.

Its large volunteer base makes the Red Cross a very efficient organization; 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs.

The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. I am proud to be part of that tradition, and encourage others to consider becoming volunteers and learn more at www.maineredcross.org.

Michele Davis, Kennebunk