In the Coastal Bend Chapter of the American Red Cross, one volunteer shines brightly through her unwavering dedication and heartfelt service—Brenda Crawley, a proud member of the Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) team and a Communications support volunteer in the Texas Gulf Coast Region.

Brenda’s journey into volunteerism began in Norfolk, Virginia, where her husband was serving on Active Duty in the Navy. Seeking meaningful ways to stay engaged, she signed up with organizations like Operation Homefront and the American Red Cross.

“I wanted to stay busy,” Brenda recalls, “and giving back felt like the right way to do it.”

Though she began volunteering in 2007, it was after returning home in 2011 that Brenda’s involvement truly deepened. Her personal connection to the military—her husband’s service and her daughter’s current post at Fort Lewis, Washington—fuels her passion.

“Serving our Military and Veteran Families holds a special place in my heart,” she shares. “As Lead of Outreach for SAF, I get to focus on giving back to our Heroes.”

Brenda’s most cherished moments come from seeing the joy on families’ faces during holiday toy drives and back-to-school events.

“Those smiles stay with you,” she says. “They remind you why you do this.”

Volunteering has transformed Brenda’s life both personally and professionally. “Giving back brings joy into my life,” she says. “I find unique ways to connect Military, Veteran, and Community Families with the resources they need.” Professionally, her work with the Red Cross has helped her build strong partnerships and advance the organization’s mission in the Coastal Bend area.

Her efforts have led to impactful collaborations with groups like Operation Homefront and Navy Federal Credit Union, and her leadership helped the Back-to-School Brigade Program serve over 150 families this year. “My goal was to build a stronger SAF Team—and I feel I’ve done that,” Brenda says proudly.

Brenda also credits her volunteer experience with strengthening her communication skills and deepening her community involvement. “Every time a volunteer signs up for a shift, I smile,” she says. “That drives me to do more.”

Her advice to anyone considering volunteering? “Start now. Be caring, be kind, and make an impact. Our Heroes deserve it.”

Brenda Crawley’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make. Through her tireless dedication, she’s helping to build a stronger, more connected community—one service member at a time.

“We take care of our Heroes from the minute they sign their contracts and through their veteran lives. 365 days a year. Period.”

If you would like to become a Service to The Armed Forces volunteer go to redcross.org/volunteer.

Story By: Adama A.