Red Cross Seeks 600 Volunteers
for 2009 U.S. Women's Open
News Release: January 5, 2009
Contact: Janice Osborne, Director-Communications and Marketing; American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley (610) 865-4400, ext. 262; pager (610) 830-9771

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley is recruiting more than 600 volunteers to assist with concession operations at the 2009 U.S. Women’s Open Championship July 6 – 12 at Saucon Valley Country Club in Bethlehem.

A share of the proceeds from these concessions will provide for local Red Cross disaster relief, including temporary lodging, clothing, food, and shoes for residents forced from their homes because of fire or other disaster; lifesaving Red Cross training such as First Aid and CPR; and Red Cross senior programs which allow older populations to live safely and independently in their homes.

“The Red Cross is excited and privileged to participate in this prestigious event,” said Executive Director John Hughes. “This is a huge undertaking which will require tremendous coordination and a large number of volunteers – something our agency is well-versed in handling as part of our mission.

“It’s an opportunity of a lifetime for our chapter. What better way to showcase the Red Cross than by participating in the most prominent women’s golf championship in our own backyard? Volunteers will be able to see the world’s best female golfers up close and personal while supporting their local Red Cross,” Hughes added.

Volunteer duties include cashiers, runners, stockers and other jobs related to concession operations. You must be at least 16 years of age and commit to at least two shifts lasting about four to seven hours each.

People interested in volunteering must complete an application and shift availability schedule posted on the Internet at www.redcrosslv.org. Following an initial screening process by the Red Cross, individuals must then complete a background check at no cost. A $10 fee will be charged to offset a portion of the cost for a Red Cross-issued polo shirt as part of the uniform.

For more information, go to www.redcrosslv.org, send an e-mail to usopenvolunteers@usa.redcross.org or call (610) 332-1589.

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley serves nearly 690,000 residents of Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties. Last year the Red Cross provided health and safety education training; Lifeline, a personal response service for seniors; and emergency relief to more than 24,000 Greater Lehigh Valley residents. For more information about the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley or volunteer opportunities, call (610) 865-4400 or visit www.redcrosslv.org.