March is the calling month for the Australian Red Cross and as such we are turning the spotlight this week onto the wonderful work this non-for-profit organisation does for humanity both locally and abroad.
The Red Cross philosophy is based on the principal of people helping people to build a better society for everyone in it. The work they do includes:
- Saving lives in the lead up to as well as in the wake of disasters
- Working to alleviate suffering of individuals during wars and conflicts
- Assisting the communities most vulnerable members in times of hardship
- Providing opportunities for those less fortunate
There are thousands of volunteers within the Red Cross working tirelessly on this cause, however they cannot do it alone. To achieve their goal they require the help from all of us. Cadelle Leather is proud to say that we are ongoing supporters of the work the Red Cross does and in light of the March call have made our donation for the third year running. We are passionate about this cause and will continue to support it for many years to come. If you would also like to get involved in continuing the work of the Red Cross we have listed 7 ways that you as an individual can help to support this life-changing cause.
How Can You Help?
1. Red Cross Shops
The first and foremost thing you can do to help is grab some friends and head out shopping! Red Cross shops are a treasure trove of fashion and decor. Their shops sell a mix of new and donated clothes, accessories and homewares, the proceeds from which all go towards raising funds for those in need. Apart from shopping at the Red Cross stores, you can also donate clothes and furniture of your own, or even volunteer to help out in the shop.
2. Donate
This is often the first thing that pops to mind when it comes to supporting a charity and that is because it is a time efficient and extremely helpful way to support a cause. You can offer a one-off or a recurring donation for whatever amount you decide. Just remember that even the smallest donation counts and it has a direct positive effect on someone else's life.
3. Fundraise
This is definitely the option for those of you who love to throw a party! Get involved and register your event with the Red Cross who will provide you with everything you need to have a great event and all the supplies you need to collect donations. This is a fun way to get all of your friends together, as well as make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. If hosting isn't for you then you can opt instead to pledge your birthday. That means instead of buying you a gift you ask your friends through social media or otherwise to donate to the Red Cross as a birthday gift to you. This is a great way to fundraise for a life-changing cause and give back to your community.
4. Donate Blood
This won't be for everyone, however for those of you eligible and willing giving blood is a fantastic way to give back and is guaranteed to save a life down the track. There are over 100 blood collection centres all over Australia that have professional and caring staff who are there to support you throughout your donation. Take a friend with you and treat yourself to some lunch after knowing you've made a difference to someone's life who will be forever grateful.
5. First Aid Training
If you're a bit squeamish and don't think giving blood is for you but still want to get involved in saving lives, the First Aid training courses are for you. With 60 training centres all over Australia there is plenty of opportunity to learn how to save a life, therefore you are becoming part of the Red Cross' vision of people helping people. Furthermore, the proceeds of the training course also goes towards supporting and continuing the work of the Red Cross.
6. Volunteer
We briefly touched on this in the first point however there are many ways and areas to volunteer in, not just the Red Cross shops themselves. Volunteers are needed in areas such as healthcare, emergency services, administration and more. See the full list of volunteer opportunities near you online here: https://www.redcross.org.au/get-involved/connect/volunteer
7. Advocate, Share the Message and Be a Friendly Face
This last point is self explanatory but the basis of it is that all you need to do in order to support this cause is to talk about it, share their message and philosophy with your friends and family, and perhaps most importantly, just be a friendly face to those in your community. Kindness and open-mindedness are greatly valued by the Red Cross and underpin everything they do, offering the same within your own community helps to spread their mission throughout society.
We hope this article has given you some ideas and inspiration on how to help support this fantastic cause. You can read more about all of the information listed here as well as more on what the Red Cross does on their website at: https://www.redcross.org.au/
