American National Red Cross

The American National Red Cross is a humanitarian organisation founded in 1881 and based in the United States, with a presence in Washington, D.C. It mobilises volunteers and donors to prevent and alleviate human suffering in emergencies. The organisation responds to an emergency every eight minutes, from single house fires to multi-state natural disasters, providing shelter, clean water, hot meals and support to families in crisis. It forms part of the largest humanitarian network in the world and has sustained its mission for more than 140 years.

Beyond disaster response, the Red Cross collects and supplies blood to the American healthcare system, accounting for approximately 40% of the nation's blood supply. It also teaches life-saving skills, including CPR and first aid, and provides support to military members, veterans and their families. The organisation operates across sectors including humanitarian aid, disaster relief, blood services, health and safety training, military and veterans services, and emergency management.

The Red Cross is a volunteer-driven organisation whose culture is shaped by the founding vision of Clara Barton. Its stated purpose is to serve those in need wherever and whenever help is required, with an emphasis on preventing and alleviating human suffering.