About
The American Red Cross (legally the American National Red Cross) prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Founded by Clara Barton in 1881 and headquartered in Washington, DC, the Red Cross shelters, feeds, and comforts people affected by disasters, supplies about 40% of the nation's blood, teaches lifesaving skills, distributes international humanitarian aid, and supports veterans, military members, and their families. It is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 53-0196605), not a government agency, and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission.
Mission
The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Its vision is that, through its strong network of volunteers, donors, and partners, the Red Cross is always there in times of need.
What they do
- Disaster relief: helping families and communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters, providing shelter, food, and comfort
- Lifesaving blood: collecting and distributing blood and blood products; the Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation's blood
- Training and certification: health and safety courses for individuals and organizations, including first aid, CPR/AED, lifeguarding, and swimming
- Military families: supporting service members, veterans, and their families, a role assigned by its congressional charter
- International services: delivering humanitarian aid and support programs around the world as part of the global Red Cross movement
History
Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross on May 21, 1881 and led the organization for 23 years, retiring in 1904. The Red Cross received its first congressional charter in 1900, and to this day it is tasked by the federal government with providing services to members of the American armed forces and their families and with providing disaster relief in the United States and around the world. It has offered health and safety training since the early 1900s, and it developed the first nationwide civilian blood program in the 1940s. Its national headquarters building at 430 17th Street NW in Washington, DC was completed in 1917 and is still in use today.
Financials
According to the organization's IRS Form 990 data on ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 the American National Red Cross reported total revenue of $3,916,983,933, total expenses of $3,285,857,544, and net assets of $4,116,230,889.
Governance
The American Red Cross operates under a congressional charter, with bylaws and committees that form the pillars of the organization. A Board of Governors provides strategic oversight to guide the organization in its humanitarian mission and services, and an executive leadership team directs its strategies, operations, and business activities. The organization also maintains an ombuds office as an impartial channel for hearing and resolving concerns.