By Nancy Waddell

For Islands Chapter American Red Cross

During March, the American Red Cross recognizes and thanks the nation’s Everyday Heroes who give of themselves and in some way help their community. The American Red Cross is synonymous with helping people, and has been doing so for more than 130 years.

This year during Red Cross Month, we are encouraging everyone to discover their “inner hero” by giving time to help a neighbor, make a financial donation or take a class in First Aid and CPR. It’s also a great time to become a Red Cross volunteer or work on a preparedness plan or kit for your household so you will be ready for emergencies.

The Islands Chapter of the Red Cross, which covers Whidbey, Fidalgo, and the San Juan Islands, will have two events to honor people in our communities who have demonstrated heroism through acts of courage or whose contributions and commitment to their community make them everyday heroes.

The South Whidbey gathering will be held on Friday, April 4, at the American Legion Post 141 on Highway 525 in Bayview. Social time begins at 6 p.m. followed by a potluck dinner and the Hero awards program at 6:30 p.m. kicked off by Commissioner Helen Price Johnson and Islands Executive Director Mike Stamper. Information on preparedness and volunteering will be available.

The full chapter event will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, May 2, at the Anacortes event center on the waterfront known as The Transit Shed.

Do you know someone who should be recognized? Send us a nomination, preferably by April 1, for this year’s awards. Nominees must live, work, or have performed their act of heroism in the Islands Chapter service area.

The easiest way to nominate a hero is to fill out the form online at www.redcross.org/islandschaper — click on the Celebrate our Community Heroes link, then click the Nominate a Hero button. Or download the form and mail to Islands Chapter, American Red Cross, P.O. Box 249, Anacortes, WA 98221; email to mike.stamper@redcross.org or fax to 360-293-0101.

Communities depend on the Red Cross in times of need, and the Red Cross depends on the support of the public to achieve its mission. We welcome your donations and participation to help us continue to provide shelter, food, emotional support and other necessities to those affected by disasters. Thank you!

The South Whidbey Disaster Response Team can be reached at 360-720-4467 or swdisasterteam@whidbey.com