Red Cross Yokota seeks helping hands

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katrina R. Menchaca
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  The American Red Cross Yokota hosted a volunteer job fair March 19 at the Airmen and Family Readiness Center here.

The Red Cross Yokota hosted the fair to educate Yokota residents about the many volunteer opportunities available to them around the base.

"We thought that it was the best way to try and get the community more involved," said Jennifer Santellan, American Red Cross Yokota chair of volunteers. "Instead of just targeting the registered volunteers we have, we wanted to target the entire base and let them know what is going on."

Some of the organizations seeking help included the Yokota Teen Center, the Officers' Spouses Club and the upcoming 2010 Kanto Plain Special Olympics.

Aimee Cox, a new resident at Yokota, said she came to the event in hopes of finding a way for her and her daughter to get involved.

"We are trying to find something to do for the community," said Mrs. Cox.  "The fair was good. It was convenient and very informational for my daughter."

Ashleigh Cox, sixth-grader, said she was excited to find something to volunteer for and looks forward to helping out during the Special Olympics.

"This was the first time I've been old enough to volunteer," said Ashleigh. "I'd like to help people and volunteer when I can."

Mrs. Santellan said she began volunteering at the Red Cross as a way to get out of the house, but she continues to donate her time because she enjoys making a difference.

"It makes me feel good to know that I'm helping out," said Mrs. Santellan.

For volunteer opportunities or more information about Red Cross Yokota, call 225-7522.