As America commemorates U.S. Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 15, and May as National Military Appreciation Month, The Arizona and New Mexico Chapters of The American Red Cross (ARC) are partnering with The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (V.A.) to boost the Department’s Compassionate Contact Corps program (CCC) which provides companionship to Vets experiencing social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

May 21 marks the 140^th anniversary of the charter of The American Red Cross by Congress, and Service to Armed Forces (SAF) has always been one of the five core services provided by ARC.  The Red Cross has been on battlefields worldwide, caring for members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families – before, during, and after their military service.

Now, the Central and Northern Arizona, Southern Arizona & New Mexico chapters ask their local volunteers to join “The Corps” and open communication with one of our nation’s heroes.  Volunteers will be matched based on shared interests and make regular phone or video visits with their Vet.

ARC Senior Vice President Koby Langley said, “We deem V.A.’s Compassionate Contact Corps a best practice and signature program. It directly aligns with our organization’s mission and expertise of its cadres across a vast nationwide network of volunteers to prevent and alleviate human suffering whenever possible.”

Red Cross Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older to participate in the CCC program and are encouraged to sign up today through The American Red Cross Volunteer Connection website.