American Red Cross
 |
|
| Formation | May 21, 1881 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Clara Barton |
| Legal status | Foundation |
| Purpose | Humanitarian aid |
| Headquarters | Washington, D.C., U.S. |
|
Region served
|
United States |
|
President
|
Gail J. McGovern |
|
Main organ
|
Board of Governors |
|
Revenue
|
US$2,974,133,836 (2014) |
| Website | www.redcross.org |
The American Red Cross (ARC), also known as the American National Red Cross, is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency assistance, disaster relief and education in the United States. It is the designated US affiliate of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
The organization offers services in four other areas: communications services and comfort for military service and family members; the collection, processing and distribution of blood and blood products; educational programs on preparedness, health and safety; and international relief and development programs.
The group was issued a corporate charter by the United States Congress under Title 36 of the United States Code, Section 3001. It is governed by volunteers and supported by community donations, income from health and safety training and products and income from blood products. The group is headquartered in Washington, D.C. In 2016 the Board Chair was Bonnie McElveen-Hunter and the President and Chief Executive Officer was Gail J. McGovern.
ARC was established in Washington, D.C. on May 21, 1881, by Clara Barton. She became its first president. Barton organized a meeting on May 12 of that year at the home of Senator Omar D. Conger (R, MI). Fifteen people were present at this first meeting, including Barton, Conger and Representative William Lawrence (R, OH) (who became the first vice-president). The first local chapter was established in 1881 at the English Evangelical Lutheran Church of Dansville at Dansville, New York.
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