Junior Red Cross Chapter at Chrisman Elementary

Chrisman Fourth Graders became part of the first elementary Junior Red Cross Chapter in our 17 county Red Cross region on Friday, January 28.   Dale Anderson, American Red Cross Wabash Valley Region, welcomed the new chapter by “pinning” them with official Red Cross pins.  The Wabash Valley Red Cross is supported in part by United Way funds. 

            Mrs. Riggen, principal, opened this first meeting by discussing volunteering for your community.  Chrisman Volunteer Firemen then shared their experiences in volunteering and explained why they want to give their time to their community.  Fire Chief Mike Marvin opened with an overview of what it means to be a volunteer and the commitment it takes from both volunteers and their families.  Volunteer Cadets Dalton Pickett and Taylor Satterfield shared how much the “Thank You’s” from victims mean.  Firemen Cody Owen and Caleb Middlemas also expressed their encouragement when people they help express thanks.  All five did a “show and tell,” showing students equipment they use such as the long ripper with alligator teeth and the axe and hammer which are “married” for use.  Fireman Owen and Chief Marvin also demonstrated the use of an air tank. 

            Students had an opportunity to ask questions of both the firefighters and Mr. Anderson. 

            The meeting concluded with students gathering around the Chrisman fire truck.  Red Cross then presented each of the students with an emergency kit handed out from the back of the Red Cross Emergency Vehicle.

            Students will meet monthly, exploring different avenues of volunteerism.

            Chrisman Elementary thanks Dale Anderson of Red Cross and the Chrisman Volunteer Fire Department for helping us kick off our chapter with this special meeting.