Sabathani and the American Red Cross Join Forces to Support Our Community 

At Sabathani Community Center, we believe in the strength of our South Minneapolis community, and we want services to enhance our collective resilience. Over the past 18 months, our partnership with the American Red Cross has been a cornerstone of our mission to protect our neighbors in times of crisis. Together, we’ve transformed our space and trained our people to ensure that when emergencies happen, Sabathani is ready to act. 

Prevention & Readiness

Our efforts begin with prevention and readiness. To this end, the Red Cross has trained almost 30 community members this year in the lifesaving training of Hands Only CPR, and more is planned. In addition, we’ll be hosting a Blood Drive here at Sabathani on November 15. Blood donations are urgently needed, especially from donors within the Black community, as they can be helpful for individuals suffering from sickle cell disease. 

A Shelter in Times of Need

Our gym is more than just a place for recreation—it’s now a sanctuary equipped with cots, blankets, and the resources necessary to provide immediate relief to those in need. Last fall, when a family lost their home to a devastating fire, we opened our doors and provided them with the safety and comfort they needed to begin their recovery. This is the essence of our partnership with the Red Cross: turning our community center into a lifeline for those in crisis. 

The Heart of Red Cross: Volunteers and Rapid Response

The Red Cross is known for its swift response to disasters, from multi-family fires to tornadoes. But what truly sets them apart is their focus on delivering not just physical relief, but also hope and comfort. This rapid response is only possible because of the dedication of volunteers—over 90% of the Red Cross workforce. At Sabathani, we’ve hosted three training sessions this year, including simulated shelter experiences, to ensure our community is prepared. 

Joseph Skinner, a longtime disaster response professional, shared his thoughts on why he got involved in the training: 

“Disaster response always starts at the local level. When disaster strikes, it’s the community that understands and knows what course is best for everyone. I’ve spent many years working in disaster response and emergency management, and I felt that working more directly with the community—educating others and responding to those in need—would help me round out my preparedness experience.” 

Joseph is now volunteering as a Shelter Associate and has found the training both informative and hands-on. He encourages others to get involved: 

“I would highly suggest for anyone interested to take that leap of faith and explore the roles the Red Cross has in disaster response. There are so many ways to learn and give back to the community in its time of need.” 

Get Involved: Blood Drive and Volunteer Opportunities

Save the date for the Red Cross Blood Drive at Sabathani on November 15! Click here to register today and help make a lifesaving difference in our community. 

We’re also seeking passionate volunteers to join our efforts. Whether you’re interested in assisting at the blood drive, becoming a Hands-Only CPR trainer, or serving as an Emergency Shelter Associate, we have roles that align with your skills and interests. When local residents step up, it not only boosts our ability to respond but also strengthens the bonds that unite us as a community. Contact us for more information on how to get involved. 

Building a Resilient Future Together

At Sabathani, we’re committed to being more than just a community center—we’re building a resilience hub where everyone is equipped to face challenges and thrive. Our partnership with the Red Cross is a key part of this vision, allowing us to support our neighbors in every way possible. Together, we can ensure that Sabathani remains a beacon of hope, strength, and unity for all who call this community home. 

Emergency Shelter Volunteers in a training session last May, learning how to assemble a cot. Joseph Skinner (quoted above) is pictured second from the left.