The American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region recently recognized its volunteers at an awards ceremony. Volunteers make up 90% of the organization, and the Red Cross understands the importance of celebrating the people who serve 51 communities with their time, energy and talent. Two siblings, Delainie and Jon, received the 2026 Red Cross Nuts N’ Bolts Award for their outstanding commitment to service, logging more than 250 hours each.

It all began three years ago. Helpful by nature, Delainie said she always wanted to volunteer but didn’t have many opportunities as a homeschooler.

“I found what I was looking for with the Red Cross,” Delainie said. “It has a supportive volunteer community where I can feel like I am part of something bigger. The virtual volunteering opportunities allowed me to have a more flexible schedule, and I was able to accomplish a lot as a volunteer.”

Now in her third year with the Red Cross Volunteer Services Department, the 17-year-old balances her roles as an engagement communicator, administrative support team member and national InfoSec awareness cybersecurity champion. She posts events and announcements, generates weekly and monthly reports for screening and onboarding teams, and promotes cybersecurity awareness within the organization.

Her desire to help inspired her brother, Jon.

“I was also looking for a volunteer opportunity to give back to others and improve myself by learning real-world skills and gaining more leadership experience,” Jon said.

Now in his second year with the Red Cross Youth Services Department, the task-oriented 15-year-old leads and supervises orientation and screening teams for youth and young adult volunteers, provides training, and helps place volunteers in areas of interest.

“Before volunteering, I was unsure how to lead, but the different roles I have taken on and the experiences I’ve had as a Red Cross youth volunteer taught me about servant leadership, leadership through serving and supporting others,” Delainie said. “Now I see myself as a proud servant leader, someone who can contribute meaningfully to the Red Cross mission.”

The experience had a lasting impact on her and helped her understand the value of her work. She said she hopes to continue volunteering after high school.

Jon shared an experience that gave him a deeper perspective on the value of his role.

“Early on, as an orientation lead, after orienting a group of youth and young adults, I realized I’m not only providing them the tools to become great volunteers, but I’m also helping them make an impact in other people’s lives,” Jon said. “That struck a chord with me and gave me a deeper appreciation for volunteering.”

Their experiences extended beyond the Red Cross. With increased awareness, Jon said volunteering has helped him become more helpful in his daily life.

“I feel like volunteering has helped me be more helpful around the house, with my family and even with strangers if they need help,” he said. “My drive to help people virtually through my roles has carried over into my personal life. I think I’ve become more helpful since volunteering.”

Echoing her brother’s sentiments, Delainie said volunteering helped her grow.

“I feel more willing to be supportive and help others,” she said. “It transformed the way I see service, as something meaningful that helps people feel supported rather than as a burden.”

The siblings said volunteering also strengthened their bond. Though they serve in different volunteer areas, they collaborate, mentor and support each other. With increased confidence, a broader network, a supportive volunteer community and a growing skill set, they said the experience exceeded their expectations. Receiving the award made it even more meaningful because they did not expect recognition.

“I was really shocked,” Delainie said. “They were saying all these amazing things, and I couldn’t believe it. When my name was called after my brother’s, I didn’t realize the impact we had until I read the nomination statements. I’m grateful to the supervisors who recognized my work and nominated me.”

Jon added, “It was an honor and a milestone in our volunteer journey.”

Motivated to continue their work and excited about what comes next, the siblings encourage other youth and young adults to volunteer with the Red Cross.

“I help volunteers stay engaged so they continue to support our community,” Delainie said.

“I try to make sure every volunteer who joins the Red Cross feels supported, prepared and set up to succeed,” Jon said.

The story of Delainie and Jon is a reminder that meaningful service does not always come from grand gestures. Often, it grows from ordinary tasks done consistently over time. Sometimes, the people who keep showing up become the ones holding everything together, the nuts and bolts of the work itself.

Make a positive impact in someone’s life an be the hope they need when a disaster strikes, sign up to volunteer today at redcross.org/volunteer.

Story By: Khadijah Lloyd