For as long as she can remember, Evelyn Castro’s life has been guided by one principle: SERVICE.

Born into a military family, Evelyn grew up understanding the importance of sacrifice, resilience, and compassion at a young age. Her father served in the U.S. Army and was often stationed overseas, while her mother raised the family alone back home. During those long separations, especially during the Korean War, the American Red Cross became a quiet but powerful presence in their lives.

“My father was stationed in the Philippines when I was young,” Evelyn recalls. “My mother often had to manage everything on her own. During that time, the Red Cross provided her with medical care and resources that helped us get through difficult seasons. Their kindness stayed with me.” That early experience planted a lifelong seed of gratitude, one that would later blossom into Evelyn’s deep commitment to giving back.

Over the next three decades, Evelyn built an impressive career in public service. Ten years in municipal government and twenty-six years in state government. Her work spanned law enforcement, social services, case management, and leadership. Along the way, she discovered her natural gift for connecting with people, whether helping families in crisis or mentoring new professionals entering the field. “I’ve always believed that leadership is an act of service,” she reflects. “Whether in government or in the community, you have to lead with empathy.”

Her drive to strengthen systems and people led her to earn aBachelor of Arts in Criminology from the University of Texas at Permian Basin and a Master of Arts in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix. Later, she shared her knowledge as an adjunct professor, teaching courses in Criminal Justice Administration and Organizational Behavior, helping the next generation understand not just the science of management, but the heart behind it.

That same heart brought Evelyn back to the organization that once supported her family, the American Red Cross. “Volunteering with the Red Cross felt like coming full circle,” she says. “It’s a way to pay forward what was given to us; compassion, care, and community.” Today, Evelyn serves in disaster response, where she brings calm and structure to chaos. Each call reminds her why this work matters. “Every call is different,” she says. “People lose homes, memories, or a sense of safety. But the pain is always real, and so is the hope. Every person deserves respect and dignity, no matter the situation.”

She credits her fellow Red Cross volunteers for keeping her inspired. “Their dedication amazes me. They show up day after day, with compassion and humility. I’m proud to stand beside them.” For those considering volunteering, Evelyn offers her advice, “Take your training seriously. Stay connected to your supervisors and teammates, and ask questions. The Red Cross gives you the tools, you just have to bring your heart.”

After a lifetime of serving others in classrooms, outside, and now in disaster zones, Evelyn’s motivation remains simple. “I serve from the goodness of my heart,” she says. “It’s my way of honoring my parents’ legacy and answering a higher calling. Every act of kindness is a reminder of how blessed I am, and how powerful compassion can be.”

Through her service, Evelyn reminds us that kindness doesn’t fade with time; it multiplies! One act of help decades ago continues to inspire new ones today, carried forward by her steady hands and generous heart.

Story By: Kofo Gbolasere