“We never take a holiday because disasters never take a holiday.”

As Wood County Commissioners recognized American Red Cross Month, Sharon Kesselring, executive director of the American Red Cross of the Ohio River Valley, reminded them just how vital the organization is to our communities.

All across West Virginia, the Red Cross provides services to the armed forces, disaster services, training for CPR and first aid and, of course, blood and blood product services.

Kesselring said the Red Cross in her area helped 81 people, and “put more than $22,000 into the pockets of individuals that had suffered disasters in this county.” More than 175 smoke alarms were installed in 60 homes, for free.

That work requires donors, volunteers and supporters.

Volunteers help with disasters such as the flooding last summer in the Northern Panhandle. If you have the time and ability, it is worth considering whether you could be part of the next batch called to help your neighbors.

Meanwhile, it is even more likely you are qualified to help in a different way. Blood donors are constantly needed.

Upcoming Red Cross blood drives in our area include:

* Today, from Noon to 5 p.m. at Davis & Elkins College’s Madden Student Center at 100 College Drive in Elkins in Randolph County.

* Thursday, March 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at West Virginia Wesleyan College Benedum Center Social Hall at 59 College Avenue in Buckhannon in Upshur County.

* Monday, March 30 from Noon to 5 p.m. at First United Methodist Church at 101 1st Street in Parsons in Tucker County.

* Tuesday, March 31, from Noon to 6 p.m., at the Parks and Recreations Building at 320 9th Street in Marlinton in Pocahontas County.

In approving a $5,000 donation to the American Red Cross of the Ohio River Valley, Commission President Blair Couch said, “We challenge all of the others to find it in their hearts to give.”

That means time, money AND blood.

Do what you can; and don’t take for granted just how much the Red Cross does for us.