New American Red Cross data released today shows a snapshot of multigenerational volunteerism here in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula.
From Gen Z to the Silent Generation, more than 3,400 volunteers across 68 Wisconsin counties and 8 counties in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula support the American Red Cross of Wisconsin. According to demographic estimates shared by most Red Cross volunteers in the Wisconsin region:
- Gen Z is the fastest-growing and largest group of volunteers (37%), driven largely by growth in student-led Red Cross clubs.
- Baby Boomers account for a quarter of volunteers (25%), followed by Millennials (17%) and Gen X (9%) to anchor core mission roles.
- The Silent Generation is the smallest cohort (1%) but contributes a legacy of service that often spans multiple decades.
“Generation after generation, our community has shown that compassion is one of its greatest strengths,” said Catherine Rabenstine, CEO of the American Red Cross of Wisconsin. “In moments when help can’t wait, volunteers of all ages and backgrounds come together to offer care, comfort and hope. Their commitment reflects a shared humanitarian spirit that connects us across time and continues to make a meaningful difference through our lifesaving mission — one that has supported families for more than half of our country’s 250-year history.”
This month, during Red Cross Month, the Red Cross honors how people today deliver support when help can’t wait. Every contribution matters — visit redcross.org to get involved by volunteering, making a financial donation, giving blood, or taking a class in lifesaving skills.
Regardless of where you live, the size of your community, or your skills and experience, the Red Cross of Wisconsin offers opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to give back.
- Gen Z and Gen Alpha (ages 13-25): Young people can power the mission of the Red Cross by starting a Red Cross Club at their middle school, high school, or college. Youth volunteers organize disaster preparedness campaigns, support community service projects, promote international humanitarian law awareness, and assist with fundraising and outreach initiatives.
- Millennials and Gen X: Whether seeking internships, AmeriCorps service, practicum hours, or volunteer experience for graduate programs, the Red Cross offers meaningful opportunities across every line of service. Volunteers support Disaster Cycle Services, Services to the Armed Forces, International Services, Communications, Volunteer Recruitment, board/associate board roles, and Community Outreach. Flexible roles — including virtual, hybrid, and in-person positions — allow professionals and students to strengthen their resumes while advancing the Red Cross mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies.
- Baby Boomers and Silent Generation: With more than 1,700 volunteer positions nationwide, experienced professionals can apply their expertise where it matters most, including as Disaster Action Team responders, Disaster Health Services (licensed healthcare professionals), Disaster Mental Health, Disaster Dispatch, Shelter Operations, international humanitarian law educators, board members, and community leadership roles. Red Cross volunteers bring decades of experience to help communities prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters. Build connection, share your knowledge and make a lasting difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can people find volunteer opportunities?
A: People can find volunteer opportunities that meet their needs at redcross.org.
Q: What is Red Cross Month?
A: Red Cross Month is a nationwide celebration in March to honor the people who deliver support when help can’t wait. It began as a national call to action during WWII for individuals to address growing humanitarian needs. Now, it’s a community tradition encouraging people to get involved at redcross.org. This year’s campaign includes:
- The Red Cross is offering free A1C screening in March to test for prediabetes and diabetes on all successful blood, platelet, and plasma donations, as part of its efforts to support the health of communities. No fasting is required; it’s always important to eat a nutritious meal before giving blood. In addition, all who come to give blood, platelets, or plasma March 1-31 will receive a $15 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. See RedCrossBlood.org/March for details.
- Financial donations made on March 25 for Disaster Relief will be part of this year’s Red Cross Giving Day, which aims to bring together 30,000 supporters to help ensure families don’t face disasters alone.
Q: What is Red Cross Giving Day?
A: Red Cross Month culminates with Red Cross Giving Day, which will be held this year on March 25. It’s an opportunity for people to come together on one day to help families recover from a home fire or other disaster across the country. Donations can be made at redcross.org/GivingDay.
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