The American Red Cross mission of providing relief to victims of disaster and helping people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies guides all Red Crossers, whether volunteers or employees, but how does it apply to our donors, the life-blood of the organization? The simple act of including Red Cross in your estate plan follows the Red Cross 3 “Ps”: Prevent, Prepare, and Provide. Merely by taking the time to formulate an estate plan, which typically includes a will or trust, you prevent your loved ones from additional distress at a difficult time; prepare for the distribution of your estate and the care and support of dependants; provide for loved ones and trusted organizations, like the American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana. All Red Cross assistance is free of charge through the generosity of the American people. Planned gifts, such as a bequest in an estate plan, help the Red Cross provide relief and sustain our operations and services.
Ron Menze, Red Cross blood donor, volunteer, and board member, knows first-hand the significance of Red Cross services. He has been active with the American Red Cross since his college days when he donated blood, donating over 11 gallons. He became a board member in 1994 and has served four terms, including 4 years as Chapter Chairman of the Board. After a three year break from serving on the board, Ron began his fifth term in July 2010. He served as the Capital Campaign Chair for our recent building expansion. When asked why he is so dedicated to the Red Cross, including leaving the organization in his own will, Ron states, “My American Red Cross service has allowed me to make a humanitarian difference on both a local and a national level.”
Consider joining Ron and the American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana by participating in this year’s Leave a Legacy® Write a Will event. During the week of November 14, the Red Cross will partner with area estate attorneys and provide donors, clients, volunteers, and staff the opportunity to meet with a volunteer attorney about their will and charitable bequest. Check off your “to-do” list by making a charitable bequest and preparing a simple will, completely free of charge. Contact Jeri Rusk, Financial Development Officer, at (260) 484-9336 x230 to schedule an appointment. Appointments are scheduled every 30 minutes during the following days and times: Monday, November 15, 3-5 p.m.; Tuesday, November 16, 1:30-4:30 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday, November 17 & 18, 9 a.m.-12 noon.
