The American Red Cross Humanitarian Organization Essay

The American Red Cross Humanitarian Organization - Essay Example In 2005, the American Red Cross played a critical role in providing humanitarian assistance to thousands of Americans who were affected by the Hurricane Katrina. Jones (2012) indicate the Red Cross assisted in the evacuation of the affected families as well as proving first aid services to the injured, as well as food and temporary shelters to those who were affected by the disaster. The American Red Cross also assisted greatly during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, where the organization provided emergency assistance to the affected people. In fact, the American Red Cross is currently synonymous with humanitarian assistance. This document will conduct a review of the Red Cross business model, lobbying efforts, leadership profile of CEO, SWOT analysis, strategic planning, administration, and operations. The American Red Cross is the largest humanitarian organization in the country. The organization was founded in 1881 to assist those who were injured during the Civil War. The American Red Cross main areas of operation are the provision of humanitarian assistance to those affected by disasters and emergencies. The first major area of Red Cross operation is the provision of disaster response services. America is one of the countries that are prone to natural and manmade disasters most of which are devastating. However, the American Red Cross has always played a key role in providing disaster response services. In fact, the American Red Cross has provided many response services, which has helped save lives of thousands of people affected by disasters. Some of the disaster incidences where the Red Cross has provided effective response services include Hurricane Katrina, 9/11 terrorist attacks, Comair Flight 5191, the Kansan tornadoes, and the Florida tornadoes just to name but a few (Am erican Red Cross, 2006). In all these incidences, the Red Cross responded by assisting in the provision of evacuation services, first aid to the injured, food, temporary shelter, clothes and bedding.American Red Cross also provides blood services in the form of donations to hospitals in need of blood. The Red Cross works closely with community centers that help in the donation of blood. The Red Cross then supplies the blood to hospitals and health facilities that require blood.