National Grammar Day: The Role of Language in Red Cross Work

Happy National Grammar Day! With such an exciting holiday upon us, we thought it’d be interesting to explore the role language plays in the Red Cross’s work. While we’re probably not always perfect stewards of good grammar, we do strive to communicate important life-saving information in a variety of languages.

Whether it’s making a doctor’s appointment or learning where to go in the wake of a disaster, being able to communicate effectively is critical to a person’s safety and well-being.

Take, for example, the Seattle chapter’s Language Bank, and the Greater Richmond Chapter’s Language Bank and check out the Creole speaking Red Cross volunteers who translated for injured Haitians on the USNS Comfort.

If you’re a grammar nerd and have bi or multi-lingual skills, please contact your local chapter and offer to help out.