Charles B. Rangel, Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Dean of the New York Congressional Delegation, addresses Partnership Breakfast attendees. (Photo: Alex Lutz)

The American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC/GNY) held its second annual Congressional Partnership Breakfast on Wednesday, January 23rd on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. Hosted by Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Dean of the New York Congressional Delegation Charles B. Rangel, the event helped further strengthen the ties between ARC/GNY and the 16 Congressional Members who represent communities within the Chapter's jurisdiction.

The Chapter's 2007 disaster response, along with its safety training classes and preparedness activities were showcased. ARC/GNY CEO Theresa A. Bischoff also discussed the Chapter’s plans to recruit 10,000 trained volunteers interested in helping their neighbors during and after a major local disaster. She asked for assistance in reaching out to community groups, faith-based organizations and community leaders to help the Chapter achieve this goal.

In addition to Mr. Rangel, guest speakers included Congressman Peter King of Long Island, Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Committee; and Congresswoman Yvette Clarke of Brooklyn, also a Homeland Security Committee member. The breakfast was also attended by representatives from the offices of Congressman Jerrold Nadler, Congressman John Hall, Congressman Ed Towns, and Congressman Vito Fossella.

CEO Theresa Bischoff was joined by the Chapter’s senior management officers, Board of Trustee Member and Chair of the Government Relations Task Force Sally Minard; Director of Government Relations Alex Lutz; Senior Director for Community Development Olivier Szlos and the Chapter’s eight Area Office Directors.