After an early retirement from her career as a social worker, Dottie Brier wanted to continue to help others, so she decided to join the Red Cross. 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, which ensures that licensed and experienced Red Cross-trained mental-health practitioners are at the scene of disasters to provide emotional support to those in need. Dottie has actively comforted and supported people affected by dozens of disasters, including the American Airlines tragedy of November 2001 and floods in Orange and Sullivan counties in 2005 and 2006.

Her experiences showed her how important the work of the Red Cross truly is, and cemented her belief in actively donating to the organization. She chooses to donate to the Red Cross because she sees first-hand how responsible the organization is in using the money, and how much good work they do.

Like Dottie, you can make an enormous difference in the lives of New Yorkers in need by donating to the American Red Cross in Greater New York. Although the Red Cross was established through a Congressional Charter, we are not a public organization funded directly by your tax dollars. Support for our essential lifesaving services is derived in large part from philanthropy – gifts from individuals and corporations, proceeds from special events, grants from foundations, local state and federal government.

You can help by making a tax-deductible contribution. We also encourage corporations to establish employee-giving programs to assist our efforts, and to create strategic partnerships with us.