The community is invited to help recognize the volunteers representing the Red Cross in Berrien County with an open house from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 27, at the American Red Cross building at 3838 Niles Road in St. Joseph.

The celebration will also mark the centennial anniversary of the organization in southwest Michigan.

For 100 years, area volunteers have responded to home fires, staffed blood drives, and supported programs that promote the health and well-being of the local community.

“Please join us as we celebrate,” said Lesa Phillips, Berrien board chair, “meet our volunteers, and learn about the history of the Red Cross in our communities.” 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.

For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit the Red Cross’ Twitter at @RedCross.