One of our generous donors is also one of our most valued volunteers. Dottie Brier, CSW, helps New Yorkers through both her charitable donations and her hard work in the Disaster Mental Health Program of the Red Cross.

After an early retirement from her career as a social worker, Dottie wanted to continue to offer her services and help others. Drawing on her life experience, she became instrumental in establishing the Disaster Mental Health Program at the American Red Cross in Greater New York in 1995, where she served in various leadership roles until June 2002. The program ensures that licensed and experienced Red Cross-trained mental-health practitioners are at the scenes of disasters to provide emotional support to those affected.

In addition to administering and championing the Mental Health Program, her contributions to ARC/GNY include teaching disaster courses and speaking to a variety of groups about the Red Cross. Dottie has been a constant source of support, whether it be following the September 11, 2001 attacks, the Oklahoma City tragedy or the local TWA, Swiss Air, Egypt Air and American Airlines aviation incidents. Dottie's work can be felt both here in New York and across the country. "It's so gratifying to be able to help at disasters and make a difference," Dottie said.

Her experiences have allowed her to see how important the work of the Red Cross is, which cemented her belief in actively donating to the organization. "I choose to donate to the Red Cross because I see how responsible they are in using the money and I know how much good work they do," she said. "The staff and volunteers here work hard to help so many people. There is such a great need for the help they offer at both small and large disasters."

When Dottie donates, although she has a special interest in mental health services, she opts not to restrict where her funds can be used. "I'm aware of all of the aspects of the Red Cross, and I want my money to be used wherever it is needed most," she said.

Thanks to volunteers like Dottie Brier, we are able to respond to an average of eight disasters a day with emotional and financial support to help disaster victims get back on their feet.