MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – The American Red Cross Heart of Tennessee Chapter recently recognized its exceptional volunteers who continue to work tirelessly to help people in need.

“We are even more aware of the great dedication of our volunteers, whose support makes a dramatic difference for our neighbors in need,” John Mitchell, local chapter executive director said. “In thanks for his dedicated service, we have presented Jim Hunt with a Red Cross volunteer award for the vital role he plays in carrying out our mission in our community.”

In the Tennessee region, more than 2,000 people volunteer with the Red Cross by responding to home fires and other disasters, supporting blood collections, providing emergency assistance to military families, and much more. These individuals are among the more than 300,000 volunteers nationwide who comprise more than 90 percent of the national Red Cross workforce.

This year’s award winner is: Jim Hunt, of Smyrna, received the Excellence in Biomedical Services Award to recognize the many ways he helps get blood to those that need it. He picks up blood and platelet products and delivers them safely to Nashville. Additionally, he delivers needed items in between weekly shuttle schedules. Finally, he maintains the American Red Cross vehicles on site, handles maintenance and repairs needed in the building, and manages building security when it must be closed unexpectedly due to weather or other events. The Heart of Tennessee team is truly grateful for his time and commitment to this organization and the people that it serves.

If you are interested in becoming an American Red Cross volunteer, visit redcross.org/volunteer to sign up online.

About the American Red Cross: 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/Tennessee or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossTN.