Indian Red Cross Society - A P Branch

Background
You couldn't not know of this. The Red Cross was set up in 1864 internationally, and in 1920 in India through an Act of Parliament. Red Cross lends it support to victims of natural calamities, disasters, epidemics and war - irrespective of their nationality, religion and race.

Activities
Apart from disaster relief, the society is also involved in several activities aimed at prevention of disease and ill-health. For example, "Peer educators" of the Red Cross have undertaken activities to inform society and high-risk individuals about HIV and its prevention.

Volunteer Opportunities
If you would like to volunteer, activities such as fund-raising, health camps, blood donation promotion and office assistance might interest you. The complete list of activities can be obtained directly from the office. Cash donations are tax-exempt.

Some membership options are patron, vice-patron, life membership and annual membership. Meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at Raj Bhavan between 10.30am and 12pm. Children and schools can opt for membership into the Junior and Youth Red Cross wings of the society. Currently, 60 colleges in the city and 1,000 schools in the state participate in Red Cross' activities.

A visit to the office indicates that the society works closely with the government - the influence apparent on the infrastructure and the office culture. Visiting the office would (probably) also mean a long wait till someone attends to you, but like they say, a longer wait is in store for those who wait!

It must be remembered, however, that the society's expertise is unquestionable - the Red Cross is the biggest blood bank in AP, and its network only grows larger with time. Familiarizing yourself with its activities can certainly prove to be a very rewarding experience.