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Tuesday, February 9, 2010 | Serving Del Rio and Val Verde County: Since 1929
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Scarbo new ARC branch director
Published April 8, 2009
What’s needed to run the American Red Cross?
The community, according to recently hired director for the Del Rio branch, David Scarbo.
Scarbo, who was hired March 2, says his immediate focus will be on building a stronger volunteer force, which has dwindled during the past few years.
“This job does not survive without volunteers…I can’t do this on my own, we thrive on volunteerism,” said Scarbo, adding that plans are underway to hold volunteer training courses.
Scarbo, a retired educator who spent 15 years with Del Rio High School’s Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, hopes he can call on that experience to help generate the volunteers needed to keep the local Red Cross branch viable.
“They are young folks who love to get involved in their community,” said Scarbo of JROTC cadets.
Though the Red Cross does not use volunteers under the age of 18 during disastrous events, Scarbo said the teens would be invaluable to the operation.
Scarbo, a retired master sergeant with the Air Force with a background in aero-medical and ground emergency rescue and recovery, public relations and counseling, has a resume that fits well with his new role.
“We are elated to have David join our team,” says San Antonio Area Chapter Chief Executive Officer Mike Bennett. “The Del Rio area will benefit from having a dedicated servant like David in this position.”
As well as looking for volunteers, Scarbo said he would also focus on fund-raising activities.
“With the economy the way it’s been in recent years, funding just hasn’t been where it needs to be,” said Scarbo, who oversees services for Val Verde, Maverick, Kinney and Edwards County.
Often people don’t consider giving money until there is a disaster, but Scarbo said waiting could be devastating to the ARC’s ability to mobilize and respond.
“We cannot forget 10 years ago during the flood, or two years ago when the tornado hit Eagle Pass,” said Scarbo.
“We need the community’s help to keep these services. Whether it’s financial or just giving of your time, we need your help.”
With just over a month on the job, Scarbo said he has big plans for the Del Rio branch and is calling on everyone for assistance.
“Am I looking for the community’s support? You bet I am,” said Scarbo.
Anyone interested in volunteering or donating to the American Red Cross can call the office at 775-8626.
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