Our members, volunteers, employees, and supporters have been the heart of our mission since 1915, selflessly dedicating their time and skills to make a difference in the lives of others. An area of our work where we’ve seen this neighbourly good will has been with former refugees, where over the decades our volunteers have helped people fleeing violence and persecution to rebuild their lives in New Zealand.

Since 1960, we’ve sent team members overseas on more than 1,000 assignments to save lives, alleviate suffering, and maintain human dignity on the front line.

This year marks 50 years since the end of international armed conflict in Viet Nam. Between 1968 and 1975, we sent more than 30 team members to help people affected by the conflict. This Vietnam Veterans’ Day, we’re taking the time to remember our people who dedicated their time to upholding human dignity and protecting humanity in Viet Nam.

When Mary Anne Eyles received an email from the Honours Department telling her she’d been awarded a King’s Service Medal, her first thought was: this must be a scam.

For Sabelo, keeping his hands busy while volunteering with Red Cross is more than just a way to give back – it was also an important part of his own recovery journey after a stroke.