American Red Cross-NMI chapter executive director John Hirsh told the Variety that the increase in participation and donations collected was quite unexpected.
“We were bracing for whatever results the economic downturn would bring, but we are very glad and surprised of the turnout because it seems the hard times is not a hindrance for people to stop supporting the organization,” Hirsh said.
The turnout on Tinian and Rota was also “very good,” he added.
“It is not very often that we get so much participation especially from these two islands, but this year they did it,” Hirsh said.
With close to over 3,000 walkers on Saipan, Rota and Tinian, it was the biggest number so far.
“Months of planning paid off. There are hundreds of other walkathons and fundraising events each year, and the community knows that if they support the Red Cross, they are supporting a good cause and have fun at the same time,” Hirsh said.
He also owes the success of the 24th annual walkathon to the school coordinators and sponsors who were always very supportive of the Red Cross.
Hirsh said there is a very minimal change in the amount of donations of the corporate sponsors each year, but the boost this year came mostly from the students.
A week after the walkathon, the Red Cross immediately put to use the donations by helping the victims of a fire in Garapan on April 5.
He said the Red Cross distributed food, clothing, blankets, other basic needs and temporary shelter.
“Without funds, the Red Cross will not be able to respond to immediate needs speedily, and without the support of the community, we won’t be there for them,” he said.
For more information about the NMI chapter services, call 234-3459 or visit its Web site at www.nmi.redcross.org
