In our definition, youth involves everyone 24 and younger; however, you need to be at least 14 to be a registered volunteer with the Red Cross. Our Youth Services Department still has many ways young people 13 and younger can serve.

A new program which any school, class, or club can get involved in right away is called the International School Chest Program. This activity will have a huge impact on a country by providing children with basic school supplies.

Also, you can join or help start a Red Cross Club at your school. The goals and activities of the club are up to you as long as they serve the mission of the Red Cross. Clubs in Central Maryland are involved in decorating bulletin boards with safety information, teaching other students how to be safe, hosting blood drives for faculty and community members, doing service projects in the community, fundraising for disaster projects, and many others. If you are in need of service-learning hours, it is up to your club to decide whether or not to provide activities to earn those. Resources and materials are available to help you start a club, if you are interested in receiving these, please contact us.