A Passion for Volunteering: Dorothy’s Story

For nearly 30 years, Dorothy Yackley of Quincy, Illinois has volunteered her time and talents with the American Red Cross.

Dorothy got started in 1994, providing health services assistance following a flood along the Mississippi River near her hometown. But, that was just the beginning. Since then, she has served in many different capacities as a Red Cross volunteer.

Dorothy has been a part of the disaster action team in numerous roles. She has served as a Blood Donor Ambassador, helping at blood drives. Dorothy has been a caseworker for Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces, as well as helping with meals for veterans and the Honor Flight program. On top of all of that, she has taught health and safety classes for the Red Cross during the past 29 years.

Recently, Dorothy joined fellow Red Cross volunteers in helping those affected by tornadoes at a resource fair in the Fulton County, Illinois.

Dorothy is a firm believer in the benefits of volunteering. She also has given her time to various other organizations, simply because she likes to help other people.

“I love volunteering. It is in helping others I find satisfaction and receive more than I can give.”
-Dorothy Yackley

Dorothy says, volunteering for the Red Cross has been particularly rewarding, and recommends it to anyone who might be interested.

“It is a highly recognized organization and one can gain many life skills volunteering for the Red Cross, as it provides many learning opportunities and information about the community and can give one a sense of purpose in helping others, either locally or nationally,” she said.

Dorothy, thank you very much for your decades of service to the Red Cross, and in turn, the community around you.

Visit redcross.org/volunteer to start your Red Cross volunteer journey.

Written by Illinois Region Communications Manager Brian Williamsen