Arlena Michael

Arlena Michael first became involved with the American Red Cross as an employee, and worked for the Greater Kansas City Chapter until her retirement in 2001. At that time, Arlena decided to continue to work for the Red Cross as a volunteer. “After being on staff for 19 years, I knew what it takes to make the Red Cross effective and work well,” Arlena said. “The next step was to look into volunteer possibilities that I would enjoy.” As an employee Arlena had exposure to a variety of departments within the Chapter, and when considering capacities in which to volunteer, she knew she wanted to interact with her community, but also enjoyed doing behind-the-scenes work. These interests led her to the health services department where she volunteers for the flu shot program.

As a paperwork coordinator for the program, Arlena oversees other volunteers and makes sure the paperwork is handled in an accurate and organized manner. “When Arlena is coordinating the paperwork at a flu shot clinic, she organizes the flow of the patients so that it is efficient and timely,” explained Sheryl Brooks, interim director of community health and youth services for the Chapter. “When Arlena does the paperwork, she takes it seriously and is very detailed, which is important for this job.” In addition to this duty, Arlena also works in the office to stock the supply tubs for the flu shot clinics and to ensure that when supplies go out to clinics they are complete.

“It’s just a way of helping people when they are in need of a hand or a service that we provide,” commented Arlena. “The expression on people’s faces when they have been helped in a friendly and kind way gets to you. It makes you know what you have done meets a need that the community has.”

American Red Cross Greater Kansas City Chapter 211 W. Armour Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64111 USA		Phone 816-931-8400 Fax 816-531-7306
© 2003-2008 The American Red Cross. All Rights Reserved. Terms of Use \| Privacy Policy