by Steve Bogdan, Content Creation Team Member

When a winter storm swept through New York in late January, it disrupted more than travel—it threatened to derail an important opportunity for connection between the American Red Cross and state leaders. But in true Red Cross fashion, plans quickly adapted.

Advocacy Day shifted to a virtual format, allowing volunteers, staff, and leadership to continue engaging with members of the New York State Assembly and Senate.

These conversations remained impactful, with Red Cross representatives sharing personal stories, highlighting the organization’s mission, and underscoring the importance of public-private partnerships.These efforts help strengthen relationships and advance policies that support disaster preparedness, public health, and community resilience.

Across all three regions— Eastern New York, Greater New York and Western New York —the Red Cross delivers vital services year-round, from disaster response and home fire prevention to blood collection and support for military families.

This work is made possible by dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and strong partnerships with state government—ensuring the Red Cross can continue to respond when it matters most.

Kevin Coffey, Regional Chief Executive Officer for the Eastern New York Region, highlighted the Red Cross’s active role in establishing shelters and rescheduling blood drives across the state due to the storm. Although this was the first time the organization held its advocacy day in a virtual format due to the storm, he noted that “even in a virtual setting, it was an impactful day.”

“Advocacy Day is a great opportunity to share updates on Red Cross services while discussing new ideas for enhanced partnerships. We value the legislators’ insights and support. Together, we’re building more resilient communities throughout the state,” he added.

Lisa Smith, Executive Director of the Central and Northern New York Chapter, agreed. “I found the virtual format of advocacy to be highly effective. It allows busy elected officials to engage without the usual distractions of back-to-back meetings, giving us a clearer opportunity to communicate our message. It also offers them a level of flexibility they don’t typically have in their offices.”

John Vale, Executive Director of the Hudson Valley Chapter, noted that “Every day, the Red Cross is there for families facing emergencies, and Advocacy Day gives us a critical platform to share that impact with our legislators. It’s about building understanding, strengthening relationships, and working together to ensure we can continue delivering help and hope when it’s needed most.”

Peter McKee, Volunteer Partner to Kevin, shared that the virtual meetings with our legislators were “great,” noting that they expressed appreciation for the work being done in their districts. “Despite a snowstorm that halted travel to the Capitol, the American Red Cross in New York State successfully held its Advocacy Day meetings virtually, ensuring continued engagement with state leaders.

“Red Crossers are known for being adaptable,’ said Zoe Isdell, New York State Relations Liaison. ‘While the value of meeting in person can’t be understated, we were able to hold meaningful discussions and share our impact with legislators despite the weather.’”

Red Cross Blood Services: A Vital Resource for New York Communities

The Red Cross is the primary blood supplier in New York, operating through a wide network of donors, collection sites, and distribution channels to serve hospitals of all sizes, from small clinics to major trauma centers. Running continuously, this full-service blood center ensures a steady supply of the right blood types for emergencies, surgeries, and ongoing patient care. Each year, thousands of units of blood are distributed to support patients undergoing cancer treatment, those with sickle cell disease, burn victims, and individuals recovering from accidents or medical procedures.

“I had an energizing day connecting with State Senators and their teams. We discussed how the Red Cross supports communities during times of crisis,” said Lisa Mistretta, District Manager of Donor Recruitment. “I’m excited about the opportunities ahead for collaboration and meaningful impact.”

Shilpa Raju, Account Manager for American Red Cross Blood Services in Newburgh, described the virtual meetings with legislators as “succinct, to the point, and very efficient.”

Even when plans change, our mission remains the same:

 Advocacy Day—whether in person or virtual—remind us just how powerful collaboration can be in building safer, stronger communities.