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American Red Cross Month

An awareness observance in March honoring the humanitarian work of the American Red Cross and encouraging donations and volunteering.

Monday
1–31
March 2027
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
Have an update or spot an error?
YEARLY DATEAll of March
OBSERVED INUnited States
CATEGORYAwareness
SUBCATEGORYPhilanthropy
ORIGIN

Government Proclamation

FOUNDING ENTITY
President Franklin D. Roosevelt
FIRST OBSERVED
1943
HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

President Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed March as Red Cross Month in 1943 to rally public support for the American Red Cross War Fund campaign.

Legislative Recordvia presidency.ucsb.edu
INTRO

Introduction

Get ready to honor the American Red Cross this March 1 for American Red Cross Month! Since its establishment in 1881, this organization has been instrumental in providing emergency relief and support to those in need during disasters and other crises. Not only do they provide aid through blood donations, disaster response, and health and safety training, but they also promote international humanitarian law to protect victims of war. This month is the perfect time to recognize and appreciate all the hard work and dedication of the American Red Cross and its volunteers. So let's spread some love and support for this amazing organization!

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TIMELINE

American Red Cross Month Timeline

American Red Cross Founding

Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross to provide humanitarian aid to those in need, particularly soldiers and disaster victims.

World War I Efforts

During World War I, the American Red Cross served the U.S. military overseas and mobilized an army of volunteers at home.

World War II Assistance

The American Red Cross again helped support U.S. military members, casualties, and civilians during World War II.

First American Red Cross Month

President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared the first American Red Cross Month to recognize the organization's critical wartime contributions.

Peacetime Disaster Relief Program

The Peacetime Disaster Relief Program was officially launched, becoming a major focus of the American Red Cross.

Give More Life Campaign

The American Red Cross launched its "Give More Life" campaign, encouraging individuals to donate blood and platelets.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate American Red Cross Month

EDITOR'S PICK

Donate blood

One of the best ways to celebrate American Red Cross Month is by donating blood. This small act can make a big impact and help save lives.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local chapter

Contact your local American Red Cross chapter and see how you can volunteer your time to help with their efforts. This could include organizing events, promoting blood drives, or assisting with disaster relief efforts.

HOST

Host a fundraiser

Gather friends and family and organize a fundraiser to support the American Red Cross. This could be anything from a bake sale to a charity auction, with all proceeds going towards their important work.

LEARN

Learn CPR and first aid

Sign up for a CPR and first aid course to learn life-saving skills. The American Red Cross offers these classes and knowing these skills could potentially help save a life in an emergency situation.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to share information about the American Red Cross and their important work. You can also encourage others to get involved and support their cause.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why American Red Cross Month is Important

Brings communities together

The American Red Cross is built upon the principles of compassion and service to others. By participating in National Red Cross Month events and volunteering with the organization, individuals can come together with their neighbors and work towards a common goal - making a positive impact on their communities.

Helps save lives

The American Red Cross provides vital services such as disaster relief and blood donation, which help save the lives of countless individuals in need. By supporting this organization through National Red Cross Month, you are making a direct impact on people's lives and helping to make the world a better place.

Raises awareness for important causes

During National Red Cross Month, the organization shines a spotlight on pressing issues such as disaster preparedness and blood shortages. This helps to raise awareness and educate the public about these important topics, ultimately leading to a more informed and proactive society.

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