November Spotlight: Allison Zhu

Allison Zhu, a Northern California Coastal Region volunteer, pivoted her school’s Red Cross Club to adapt to COVID-19

As the world shut down at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic last year, Allison Zhu saw a need to rally the San Mateo High School Red Cross Club to take action. Thanks to her leadership and despite the restrictions of a virtual environment, the Club thrived.

For example, Allison ran an event called “Match the Mask” in which volunteers made masks and donated them to local hospitals. The initiative grew to involve other Red Cross Clubs in the area and ultimately 500 masks were donated. Other events she has organized include an online retreat, Missing Maps MAPathon and Points of Privilege activity.

Allison advises volunteers looking to get more involved with their community to think of the impact that they will make. “Even if you’re just one person, your contributions can make a world of difference to the people that you are helping.”

Amazing work, Allison! We wish you the best of luck on your Red Cross journey and can’t wait to see what you will accomplish in the future.