Thirteen members of the National American Red Cross Retiree Association (ARCRA), Greater New York Unit, conducted a general meeting on November 29 at Chapter Headquarters in Manhattan. These retired American Red Cross employees live in the Greater New York area and are interested in maintaining or renewing their ties to the Chapter as volunteers.

ARC/GNY CEO Theresa A. Bischoff welcomed the group and expressed her hope that the Chapter would build a strong relationship with them in the coming months and benefit from their knowledge and experience.

Bob Imbornoni, Deputy Response Officer, Operations, then discussed some recent advancements, including updates to the GPS system in Chapter vehicles, the Mobile Command Unit, and Client Services reception and office area. He also talked about the Chapter's response to recent emergencies and disasters, including the April Nor"easter, the July steam pipe explosion in midtown Manhattan, and the Brooklyn tornado this August.

Volunteer Resources Department Senior Director Jennifer Cunningham suggested ways the group might become more involved with ARC/GNY—for instance by taking CPR/First Aid classes and introducing friends to the Chapter by bringing them to a Red Cross Here and Now presentation.  Eric Grant, Assistant Director, Volunteer Retention, suggested possible volunteer opportunities, including Call Center Agent, Donation Volunteer, and taking part in an Oral History Project.

After the presentations, the group toured the facility, including the Emergency Communications enter, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), the responder area, the Red Cross Heritage Gallery, and the motor pool.