Young Red Cross volunteers serve Yongsan

By Cpl. Jung Jihoon (IMCOM)September 24, 2013

Youths volunteer for Yongsan community
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Youths volunteer for Yongsan community
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YONGSAN, Republic of Korea - The annual Red Cross Summer Youth Program allows youths, ages 14-17, to volunteer and work in the Red Cross office on U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan. Twenty-eight Area II teenagers participated in the American Red Cross Summer Youth Program, helping patients and staff at Brian Allgood Army Community Hospital for 8 weeks.

The volunteers worked as receptionists, inventory managers, and several other occupations. Each received a certificate and a letter of participation. The volunteers said the program was personally rewarding and gave them new skills and inspiration for their future careers.

"It was a nice experience to work in the hospital," said Eric Mora, one of the 28 youths who participated in the program. "Although I was not able to handle professional medical tasks, it was a meaningful experience because my goal is to become a doctor. Meeting new people was also a nice part of participating in the program."

Opportunities like the American Red Cross Summer Youth Program also benefit the community. Regan Jefferson, the assistant station manager of American Red Cross- Yongsan, said the program is an effort to make the community a better place.

"Programs like this affect our community in a positive way," Jefferson said. "We designed it to be an opportunity for our youths to learn through real world experience. Also, our intention was to spread warmth and hospitality; a 14 year old boy and a 17 year old girl working together and volunteering definitely helps inspire people."

The American Red Cross supports USAG Yongsan in various ways, including offering safety classes and volunteer opportunities. More information about the Red Cross Yongsan and its programs can be reached at DSN: 315-738-3670, or visit the Red Cross office at Moyer Recreational Center 2nd floor.

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