Breanna Gasson grew up hearing how the Red Cross reunited her great-grandparents in Iran and helped them to resettle in Australia after they were separated by the complicated politics of World War II.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It later prompted her to join the organisation as a volunteer when she moved to Canberra three years ago.
At Wednesday's launch of the Australian Red Cross centenary she was one of several to tell her story as a youth volunteer.
''It was a good opportunity to share my personal involvement with the Red Cross, my family's history with the Red Cross and also recognise the work of the Red Cross with youth today,'' she said. ''My personal focus is on the next 100 years.''
Long-time volunteer Betty Mills welcomes the young energy to the organisation.
She also shared her story at the launch as a senior volunteer, after joining the Red Cross almost 20 years ago when she retired.
''I've met very inspiring people from all walks of life,'' she said.
''I think it's lovely so many youth are involved.''
Although it may be well known for its blood donation service and annual doorknocks, the Red Cross's work in Australia is diverse.
Ms Gasson volunteers for a migrant support program and helps mentor unaccompanied refugees.
Ms Mills found working at the recovery centre after the 2003 bushfires one of the more confronting experiences as a volunteer, but also witnessed the ''great achievement'' of all organisations banding together in the fires' aftermath.
