Red Cross: "Ready for a New Century" 1956-1981

The 1960s and 70s were times of social upheaval. Vietnam began to take center stage in the public eye. At the military's request, Red Cross began a program to provide recreational activities in Vietnam. The organization continued its long tradition of providing emergency communications between soldiers and their families.

Red Cross lived up to its commitment to the people of America "supporting the troops and providing relief to refugees. Domestically, Hurricane Camille roared ashore in 1969 " devastating the Gulf Coast. It dramatically changed the organization's approach to disaster relief as Red Cross recognized the need for a more equitable distribution of aid. By the 1970s, even though Red Cross had been helping and meeting the needs of the American public for almost 100 years, many people felt the Red Cross was not relevant and had lost touch. (SOT: man-on-the-street interviews from "More Than Coffee & Donut's") In the years leading up to the centennial celebration in 1981, Red Cross was transforming itself. The organization called for a national blood policy to standardize practices and end paid donations. Health and Safety services made bold strides in water safety and first aid.