Colonial Crossroads Named Highly-Performing Chapter
for Third Consecutive Year

AREA (April 24, 2008) – The Colonial Crossroads Chapter of the American Red Cross has been named one of the highest performing chapters in the United States by the National American Red Cross headquartered in Washington, D.C. The ranking was based on a comprehensive set of 47 performance standards completed by Red Cross chapters nationwide. Only 90 of 749 Red Cross Chapters throughout the country earned the honor.

“The Highly Performing Chapter ranking is a direct result of the hard work and commitment of our chapter’s volunteers, financial donors, and staff who carry out the mission of the Red Cross every day here in our local area,” said Michael Wattick, Colonial Crossroad Chapter Chairman of the Board. “We are honored to receive this prestigious award for the third year in a row.”

Established in 1917, the Colonial Crossroads Chapter has more than 500 volunteers who provide Red Cross programs and services to Berkeley Heights, Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, East Hanover, Florham Park, Long Hill Township, Madison, New Providence, Springfield and Summit.

Last year the chapter distributed more than 49,000 pieces of disaster preparedness educational materials; trained more than 17,000 participants in life-saving skills such as First Aid, CPR, the use of an AED, babysitting, water safety and life-guarding. Volunteers provided 9,545 free rides for Union County seniors to medical appointments; delivered 4,150 meals to seniors in partnership with Sage Eldercare Meals-on-Wheels; generated nearly 1,100 units of blood through 44 blood drives; and helped 11 local families communicate with a family member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces during a time of emergency.

All Colonial Crossroads Chapter disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money. The chapter receives no sustained financial support from the national American Red Cross and no government funding. The strength and viability of the Red Cross in the area is based solely upon the level of financial support and volunteer engagement obtained from the community it serves.

To find out more about the Colonial Crossroads Chapter of the American Red Cross, how to donate expertise, time, money or blood; or to help your family, business, or community prepare for emergencies, visit www.ccnjredcross.org